Drug and Alcohol Policy

The Academy will not tolerate the use of illegal drugs and the abuse of alcohol by its midshipmen. Students who are found in violation of the Academy’s drug and alcohol policy face serious disciplinary action.

Each appointee to the Academy receives drug urine testing during indoctrination. Mandatory drug screening of midshipmen occurs before sea training; prior to graduation as a prerequisite of U.S. Coast Guard licensing and commissioning in the U.S. Armed Forces; and at any time that a reasonable suspicion exists of substance abuse. Midshipmen may be tested for alcohol use or abuse by means of a blood and breath alcohol test any time that reasonable suspicion exists of alcohol abuse.

The penalty for drug use is disenrollment. Alcohol related offenses of Midshipmen Regulations are referred to the Academy's Department of Health Services for individual or group counseling and may incur disciplinary action through the Office of the Commandant. Consumption and possession of alcohol on the Academy grounds will result in severe disciplinary action.

Each plebe class receives formal instruction about the risks of drug and alcohol abuse, as well as about the revelent policies of the Academy, the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Armed Forces and the maritime industry. Refresher sessions are held throughout the midshipman’s four years at the Academy. The Midshipmen Personal Development Service administers a variety of educational, treatment and counseling services and activities to support midshipmen.

As a prerequisite for appointment as midshipman, Merchant Marine Reserve (MMR), U.S. Naval Reserve (USNR), all students who are U.S. citizens are required to read and initial a statement of understanding which outlines U.S. Navy policy regarding drug and alcohol use and abuse, and the consequences
for violating the policy.