ETG Calculator – Alcohol Detection Time
⚠️ Important Disclaimer: This ETG calculator provides estimates based on average metabolism rates. Individual factors (age, liver health, medication, hydration, etc.) can significantly affect actual detection times. This tool is for informational purposes only and is not medical or legal advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for accurate personal assessment.
ETG Calculator – How Long Does Alcohol Stay in Urine?
Alcohol testing is widely used in the United States for workplace screening, court-ordered probation, rehabilitation programs, and medical evaluations. One of the most sensitive alcohol tests available today is the ETG urine test. This page includes a free ETG calculator to estimate how long alcohol metabolites may remain detectable in urine.
What Is ETG?
ETG (Ethyl Glucuronide) is a direct metabolite of alcohol (ethanol). Unlike standard breath or blood alcohol tests, which detect alcohol for only a few hours, ETG can remain detectable in urine for several days after drinking.
Because of its sensitivity, ETG testing is commonly used in probation monitoring, alcohol treatment programs, family court cases, and workplace compliance testing.
How the ETG Calculator Works
The ETG calculator estimates detection time based on commonly accepted research data. It considers:
- Number of standard drinks consumed
- Gender
- Time since last drink
- Typical ETG elimination ranges
The result includes an estimated detection window and a general risk level. Actual ETG results may vary between individuals.
How Long Does ETG Stay in Urine?
ETG detection time depends largely on how much alcohol was consumed and how frequently. Below is a general guideline used for educational purposes.
| Drinking Level | Estimated ETG Detection Time |
|---|---|
| 1–2 standard drinks | 24–48 hours |
| 3–5 drinks | 48–72 hours |
| 6–8 drinks | 72–96 hours |
| Heavy or repeated drinking | 96+ hours |
ETG Test Cutoff Levels Explained
Laboratories use cutoff levels to determine whether an ETG test result is positive. Common cutoff thresholds include:
- 100 ng/mL – Very sensitive, may detect incidental exposure
- 300 ng/mL – Standard cutoff used by many labs
- 500 ng/mL – Less sensitive, usually indicates heavier drinking
Lower cutoff levels increase the chance of detecting alcohol even after light consumption.
Can One Drink Show Up on an ETG Test?
Yes. Even a single standard drink may produce a positive ETG result, especially if testing occurs within 24 hours and a low cutoff level is used. Individual metabolism and hydration levels can also affect detection.
Does Drinking Water Flush ETG Faster?
Drinking water may temporarily dilute urine, but it does not remove ETG from the body faster. ETG is eliminated naturally through metabolism over time. Excessive water consumption before a test may raise suspicion.
Is ETG Testing Used for Probation?
Yes. ETG urine testing is widely used in:
- DUI probation programs
- Family court monitoring
- Alcohol rehabilitation programs
- Workplace alcohol compliance testing
Due to the sensitivity of ETG tests, many probation programs require complete abstinence.
How Accurate Is an ETG Calculator?
An ETG calculator provides an estimate based on averages. Accuracy can vary due to:
- Individual metabolism differences
- Body weight and fat percentage
- Frequency of drinking
- Laboratory cutoff levels
When legal or employment consequences are involved, it is safest to assume conservative detection times.
