About This Article
Zoom Testing has over 20 years’ experience providing drug testing products and information in the UK. This archived article examines drug-driving conviction figures reported in 2017, including the impact of legislation introduced in 2015 and the use of roadside drug testing.
Originally published: 4 October 2017 | Reviewed: 18 October 2026 | By: Anthony Cunningham
From the Zoom Testing Archive: Originally published on 4 October 2017, this article records drug-driving conviction statistics and police testing practices being reported at that time. The figures relate to an earlier period and should not be interpreted as current conviction rates. Drug-driving enforcement, testing procedures and official guidance may have developed since publication. For current drug testing information and guidance, please see our latest articles.
New research confirmed that hundreds of people were being convicted every year for driving while under the influence of drugs.
After the new laws were introduced in 2015, convictions for drug-driving offences increased to an average of four motorists daily, according to Department for Transport figures reported in 2017.
There were 1,442 motorists convicted in England and Wales in 2015 under the new drug-driving offence. In the UK, drivers convicted of drug driving can face a minimum 12-month driving ban, an unlimited fine and up to six months in prison. These are possible penalties under the legislation, rather than outcomes imposed in every case.
The drug-driving legislation introduced specified blood concentration limits for 17 controlled drugs, including illegal drugs and certain prescription medicines. Exceeding the applicable limit while driving is an offence, although a statutory medical defence may apply where a medicine has been taken as prescribed and the relevant conditions are met.
Statistics reported at the time showed that 95% of the motorists convicted were male and 64% were in the 16-29 age group.
Of those convicted, 66% had previously been convicted of other offences, according to the historical figures reported.
Merseyside Police reported that many of those arrested for drug driving during one month were members of organised crime groups who were known to have a recent criminal history.
Prior to the introduction of the law, it was often difficult for police to prove that a driver was impaired by drugs. The new laws made it easier for police to take action against drivers exceeding specified drug limits, without needing to prove impairment under that particular offence.
Drug Driving Test Kits
Drug driving test kits, sometimes referred to as ‘Drugalyser’ kits, have helped police screen drivers for drugs such as cannabis and cocaine using a saliva sample.
The law also extends to certain prescription medicines, including morphine and temazepam. Amphetamine is also covered by the legislation and may be prescribed for certain medical conditions, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Drivers taking prescribed medicines should follow medical advice and must not drive if their ability to drive safely is impaired.
Roadside drug screening results are preliminary and are not normally conclusive evidence of an offence. Where a driver tests positive, police may arrange for an evidential blood sample to be taken and analysed by an accredited laboratory. The evidential result, together with other relevant information, may then be used in court proceedings.
For further information about current offences, penalties and the rules concerning prescription medicines, see the UK Government’s drug-driving guidance.
Photo Credit: “Scotland Police” (CC BY 2.0) by Michel Curi.
About the Author
Anthony Cunningham, BA (Hons), MA, is a UK-based drug testing expert and editor with over 20 years’ experience running Zoom Testing, a trusted source for accurate drug testing kits and testing guidance. He creates clear, evidence-based articles using UK legislation, workplace compliance standards, and harm reduction best practices. Where possible, content is reviewed by testing specialists and compliance professionals to enhance accuracy and reliability, helping readers make informed testing decisions.
Drug Testing Disclaimer
This article is for general information only. Drug test cut-off levels, detection times and results can vary according to the test, specimen type and testing standard being used. A screening result should not be used on its own to make medical, legal or employment decisions. Where a test result has significant consequences, appropriate confirmation testing and professional advice should be considered.
