After a positive drug screen, how many days do you have to notify IA?

• A. 2
• B. 3
• C. 4
• D. 5

Answer: (D)

The rule being tested is the timeframe for reporting a positive drug screen to Internal Affairs. In most agencies, you must notify IA within five days of the positive result. This window ensures a timely, documented report so IA can begin a proper review while you still have fresh information and witnesses, and it supports due process and accountability for all involved.

Five days strikes a balance between acting quickly and allowing enough time to gather initial facts, coordinate with your supervisor, and prepare a clear report. Not two, three, or four days, because those shorter windows are generally viewed as insufficient for completing the initial notification and assembling the pertinent information.

If you don’t meet the window, it can be treated as a policy violation, so you should adhere to the five-day requirement and follow your agency’s specific procedures. In practice, you typically first inform your supervisor as soon as practical, then ensure IA is notified within the allowed five-day window.