Marijuana detection windows at a glance
| Test type | Approximate detection window |
|---|---|
| Saliva (oral fluid) | Up to ~24–72 hours after use |
| Blood | A few hours up to ~1–2 days (longer for heavy users) |
| Urine | ~3 days (single use) to 30+ days (daily/heavy use) |
| Hair follicle | Up to ~90 days |
Why the urine range is so wide
Unlike most drugs, THC is stored in body fat and released slowly over time. For someone who uses once, a urine test may be clear in a few days. For a daily or long-term user, THC metabolites can keep showing up for a month or more after the last use. Frequency of use is the single biggest factor.
What affects how long THC lasts
- How often you use — occasional vs. daily is the biggest driver
- Potency and amount — higher-THC products build up faster
- Body fat — THC is stored in fat, so more storage means longer detection
- Metabolism and activity — everyone processes it at a different rate
- The test and its cutoff — different tests and thresholds change the outcome
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Which test is right for your situation
If you need to show recent use or abstinence over a short window, a urine test or saliva test is usually the right call. When a court or employer wants a longer look-back, a hair follicle test can show a pattern up to about 90 days. Not sure which one applies to you? We'll help you choose.
Detection windows are general estimates, not guarantees. Actual times vary widely with dose, how often a substance is used, body weight and metabolism, hydration, the specific test and cutoff level, and individual biology. The only way to know your result is to test. This page is informational and is not medical or legal advice.