Yes, the U.S. military can test for anabolic steroids. But the Department of Defense does not usually include steroids in the standard random urinalysis panel. Steroid testing most often happens through targeted testing when commanders or investigators have a specific reason to look for it.
DoD Instruction (DoDI) 1010.01 sets the rules for military drug testing. It explains how the Services run urinalysis and how DoD-certified labs conduct testing, with the goal of supporting readiness and deterrence through a standardized program. The Instruction reflects a structured system with defined rules and lab procedures, not an unlimited “test for everything” approach in routine testing.
Not usually. Routine random urinalysis generally focuses on the core substances covered by the MPDATP’s standard testing. Steroid detection often requires specialized testing methods and targeted lab resources. Commands tend to reserve steroid testing for investigations or situations where evidence supports a focused test, rather than adding it to every random sample. Steroid testing becomes more likely when the facts support a targeted test.
DoDI 1010.01 explicitly identifies anabolic steroids as controlled substances. That policy gives commanders and investigators a firm basis to treat steroid cases like any other controlled-substance cases when credible information exists. Common triggers include:
SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) often appear in “performance” supplements. Labels may market them as “research chemicals” or “legal alternatives,” but DoD policy still creates serious exposure. While SARMs may not be controlled substances like anabolic steroids, their use by service members is still prohibited.
DoD Instruction 6130.06, Use of Dietary Supplements in the DoD, states that Service members will not use products that contain ingredients on the DoD Prohibited Dietary Supplement Ingredients List found on the OPSS website, unless a DoD health care provider authorizes the use. The DoD Prohibited Dietary Supplement Ingredients List specifically names SARMs such as MK-677 and RAD-140 as prohibited ingredients.
Commanders can treat violations as failure to obey a lawful general order or regulation under UCMJ Article 92 (10 U.S.C. § 892). Even when SARMs do not show up on standard random urinalysis, using supplements that violate the OPSS prohibited ingredients rule can still expose a Service member to adverse action, including Article 92 consequences.
DoDI 1010.01 makes the legal consequences direct: illicit steroid possession or use triggers UCMJ exposure because anabolic steroids qualify as controlled substances under the Instruction’s enforcement framework.
That exposure can lead to:
If you are a service member under investigation or being punished for steroid use, it is critical to consult with an experienced military attorney early on.
Does the military test for steroids on a random drug test?
Usually no. Routine random urinalysis focuses on the standard DoD drug-testing program and typically does not include anabolic steroids.
Can the military still test for steroids if they suspect use?
Yes. Commanders and investigators can pursue targeted testing when credible information supports it.
Are anabolic steroids punishable under the UCMJ?
Yes. DoDI 1010.01 states that illicit possession or use of controlled substances, including anabolic steroids, constitutes an offense under the UCMJ.
Do SARMs show up on military drug tests?
Not consistently in routine testing. The more common risk comes from DoD supplement rules and enforcement actions tied to prohibited ingredients.
Can you get punished just for taking a supplement with SARMs?
Yes. DoDI 6130.06 states that service members will not use products containing ingredients on the OPSS prohibited list unless authorized, and commanders can enforce violations under UCMJ Article 92 (failure to obey a lawful order or regulation).
Steven J. Goralski, with Military Defense Litigator, LLC, primary serves Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune and Fort Bragg. Serving these two locations allows service members in these two locations access to experienced, genuine and effective representation.
Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, NC is home to II Marine Expeditionary Force. It is the largest Marine Corps Base on the East Coast. The location allows for amphibious training and its close proximity to two deep water ports allows rapid deployment worldwide.
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