Alcohol can be detected in urine for varying lengths of time depending on the type of test and the amount of alcohol consumed:
- Standard ethanol urine tests typically detect alcohol for up to 12 to 24 hours after the last drink
- More sensitive tests that detect alcohol metabolites, such as Ethyl Glucuronide (EtG) and Ethyl Sulfate (EtS) , can identify alcohol use for a longer period, generally up to 72 to 80 hours (3 to 4 days), especially after heavier drinking
- For light or moderate drinking, detection is usually shorter (around 12–24 hours), while heavy or chronic drinking can extend detection times up to 3–4 days or more
In summary, alcohol itself is usually detectable in urine for about 12 to 24 hours, but its metabolites can be found for up to 3 to 4 days, depending on drinking amount and test sensitivity.
