Usually, yes. If you are a job applicant, you should be aware that employers in the private sector may drug test you if they provided notice that drug testing is part of the job application process, the job is offered contingent on passing a drug test, there is no discrimination applied in testing, and a state-certified lab administers the test.Once you have the job, your employment status will determine how protected you are, but generally there are more restrictions on testing an employee than testing a job applicant. The restrictions vary from state to state. For example, in states with a drug-free workplace program, employers are permitted to test based on reasonable suspicion, on a random basis, or when an employee comes back to work after rehabilitation that follows a positive drug test.There are states in which companies cannot conduct a random drug test or a blanket drug test. The employer must have a reasonable suspicion for believing you are using drugs, or there must be a high risk of injury associated with performing job tasks under the influence of drugs. For example, if you operate a forklift as part of your job and smell like you have been drinking or getting high on your lunch hour, you could be required to take a drug test.While you can refuse to take a drug test, you should be aware that your employer can fire you in most states for refusing to take a test, and in some states, you can even be denied unemployment benefits if you were fired for refusing to take a drug test if the employer had a preexisting written policy that prohibited drug use.There are some states that have put in place detailed procedural rules, while other states have not enacted legal procedures related to drug testing. If you are concerned about drug testing in connection with your employment, you should consult an employment attorney licensed to practice in the state in which you work.