Start a mobile drug test collector business

Small and mid-sized employers, staffing agencies, probation and family court cases, attorneys, and individuals who need a test at home.

A fee per collection or per call-out, often with a minimum charge for travel. Regular contracts with employers or third-party administrators bring repeat work.

• Careful, consistent record keeping
• Professional and discreet with people
• Reliable scheduling and driving

• DOT-regulated tests require collectors to complete specific training and follow federal procedures, so check the US Department of Transportation rules before offering them
• Some states have their own rules for workplace testing or for who may collect samples, so check your state's requirements
• Check what insurance you need, such as general liability and possibly professional or errors and omissions cover
• Handling private health information carries privacy duties, and any mistake in the chain of custody can invalidate a test
• Ask your city or county whether you need a local business license

Estimates put startup costs typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your supplies, equipment and setup. Insurance such as general liability, and possibly errors and omissions cover, is also worth checking before you start.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many employers, agencies and individual clients you serve. The estimates assume at least about 8 hours a week, so part-time work is possible.

Check before you start: DOT-regulated tests require specific collector training and federal procedures, and some states have their own rules on who may collect samples. Also ask your city or county whether you need a local business license.