EtG Levels Chart: Visual Reference by Drinks, Time & Cutoff
Most people search "EtG levels chart" because they want one thing: a picture that shows when they'll be clear. Here it is — with the math behind it.
Interactive EtG Decay Chart
Based on a 180 lb (82 kg) male. Hover or tap to see exact values at each hour.
How to Read This Chart
Each line represents a drinking scenario. The vertical axis shows EtG concentration in ng/mL. The horizontal axis shows hours since your last drink.
2 Drinks (Light)
Clears 500 ng/mL in ~10 hours. Clears 100 ng/mL in ~17 hours.
4 Drinks (Moderate)
Clears 500 ng/mL in ~13 hours. Clears 100 ng/mL in ~20 hours.
6 Drinks (Heavy)
Clears 500 ng/mL in ~15 hours. Clears 100 ng/mL in ~22 hours.
10 Drinks (Binge)
Clears 500 ng/mL in ~18 hours. Clears 100 ng/mL in ~25 hours.
EtG Levels Reference Table
The table below shows estimated EtG levels at key time intervals for each drinking scenario. All estimates assume a 180 lb male metabolizing alcohol at the average rate.
| Hours | 2 Drinks | 4 Drinks | 6 Drinks | 10 Drinks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peak (~3h) | ~2,700 | ~5,400 | ~8,100 | ~13,500 |
| 6 hours | ~1,700 | ~3,400 | ~5,100 | ~8,500 |
| 12 hours | ~340 | ~680 | ~1,020 | ~1,700 |
| 18 hours | ~68 | ~135 | ~200 | ~340 |
| 24 hours | <50 | ~54 | ~80 | ~135 |
| 36 hours | <50 | <50 | <50 | <50 |
Values are approximate. Green = below 100 ng/mL. Amber = 100-500 ng/mL. Red = above 500 ng/mL.
SAMHSA EtG Level Interpretation Guide
Below 100 ng/mL — Negative
No significant alcohol exposure detected. This is a pass at any cutoff level.
100 - 500 ng/mL — Low Positive (Gray Zone)
May indicate light-to-moderate drinking 1-3 days prior, or heavy incidental exposure. Positive at 100 ng/mL cutoff, negative at 500. Learn about the gray zone →
500 - 1,000 ng/mL — Positive
Strong indication of recent alcohol consumption within the past 24-48 hours. Positive at all standard cutoffs.
Above 1,000 ng/mL — High Positive
Definitive evidence of heavy recent alcohol use, typically within the past 12-24 hours. No ambiguity at this level.
Why Your EtG Levels May Differ From the Chart
The chart above models an "average" 180 lb male. Your actual levels can vary by ±30% or more due to:
Body Weight
Heavier people distribute alcohol across more body water, producing lower peak EtG. See our calculation guide.
Biological Sex
Females have a lower Widmark r factor (0.55 vs 0.68), resulting in higher peak BAC and EtG from the same drinks.
Liver Function
Compromised liver function can significantly slow EtG elimination. Chronic alcohol use may affect enzyme activity.
Hydration Level
Dehydration concentrates urine, producing higher ng/mL readings. Overhydration can dilute, triggering a lab flag.
Tip: Because of this variation, always add a 30% safety margin to any estimate. If the chart says 18 hours to clear, plan for at least 24. Read more about safety margins in our probation guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are normal EtG levels?
An EtG level below 100 ng/mL is generally considered negative. Levels between 100-500 ng/mL fall in the "low positive" or gray zone, while levels above 500 ng/mL indicate recent drinking, and levels above 1,000 ng/mL suggest heavy recent use.
How fast do EtG levels drop?
EtG has a half-life of approximately 2.5-3 hours. The concentration drops by roughly half every 2.5-3 hours after peaking. For example, 10,000 ng/mL would drop to ~5,000 after 3 hours, ~2,500 after 6 hours, and so on.
What EtG level is considered a positive test?
It depends on the cutoff used. At the standard 500 ng/mL cutoff (most courts and workplaces), levels above 500 are positive. At the stricter 100 ng/mL cutoff (some clinical programs), anything above 100 is positive. Learn about clearing these cutoffs →
What does an EtG level of 5,000 ng/mL mean?
An EtG level of 5,000 ng/mL indicates recent, significant alcohol consumption within the past 12-24 hours. It is well above both standard cutoffs and classified as a high positive by SAMHSA.
Can hand sanitizer or mouthwash affect my EtG levels?
Heavy use of ethanol-containing products can produce transient, low-level EtG elevations, sometimes exceeding 100 ng/mL but rarely exceeding 500 ng/mL. These are typically short-lived.
Disclaimer: This chart is for educational purposes only. EtG estimates are based on the Widmark formula and an average EtG half-life of 3 hours. Actual EtG levels vary based on individual metabolism, liver function, hydration, genetics, and other factors. This is not medical or legal advice. Never rely solely on a chart to make decisions about testing compliance. When in doubt, allow more time. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance specific to your situation.
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