How to Handle Prohibited Interview Questions (Part 1)
Employment laws prohibit discrimination not only in the workplace itself but as well as in the interviews. In interviews, questions that are inquisitive about race, religion, sexual orientation, family tradition and situation, and disabilities are illegal. Nevertheless, only a few people know which questions are illegitimate and most applicants fall into a trap of disqualification due to prejudice.
Forbidden Questions about Religion
Examples:
Do you go to church?
Are you religious?
What religion are you?
Do you take time off work for religious purposes?
Exceptions:
Organizations that have a specific religious orientation might ask questions relevant to religious practices and beliefs.
Forbidden Questions about Disabilities and Health
Examples:
Do you have any disabilities or medical conditions?
How serious is your disability?
Do you take any prescription drugs?
Have you ever been in rehab?
Have you ever been an alcoholic?
How many sick days did you take last year?
Do you have AIDS?
Have you been diagnosed with any mental illnesses?
Have you ever received worker’s compensation or been on disability leave?
Exceptions:
Employers may ask whether you have any conditions that would keep you from performing the specific tasks of the job for which you are applying. They may also require that all candidates for a certain position pass through a medical examination that is relevant to the responsibilities of that job. Employers can subject candidates to illegal drug tests or ask you whether you take illegal drugs.
(Taken from: http://www.job-hunting-tips.com/interview-center/interviews9.html)