What Is an ETG Alcohol Test?

ETG (Ethyl Glucuronide) is a direct alcohol metabolite detectable in urine for up to 80 hours after the last drink.

How It Works

• ETG is formed when the liver processes alcohol
• Remains in urine long after alcohol itself is gone
• Much longer detection than breathalyzer or blood alcohol

Detection Windows

• Light drinking: 24–48 hours
• Moderate: 48–72 hours
• Heavy: up to 80 hours

Who Uses ETG?

• Court-ordered sobriety monitoring
• Substance abuse treatment programs
• Professional licensing boards
• Liver transplant evaluation

Limitations

• Can detect incidental alcohol exposure (hand sanitizer, mouthwash)
• Cutoff levels help distinguish drinking from incidental exposure