Driving after drugs in France (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Driving after drug use shown by a blood or saliva test is a criminal offence, with no numeric limit. Police can order screening tests without suspicion.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Approach to cannabis (THC)Driving a car after drug use | Any use is an offence [1] |
| THC thresholdDriving a car after drug use | No numeric limit: an offence if a blood or saliva test shows drug use [1] |
| Prescribed medicinesDriving a car after drug use | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Police screening testDriving a car after drug use | Yes [2] |
| Main sanctionsDriving a car after drug use | Up to 3 years in prison and a fine of EUR 9,000 (5 years and EUR 15,000 if also above the alcohol limit) [1] |
Notes
- The articles read contain no exemption for medicines and say nothing on prescribed drugs.
Sources
- Légifrance: Article L235-1 - Code de la route (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- Légifrance: Chapitre 5 : Conduite après usage de substances ou plantes classées comme stupéfiants (Articles L235-1 à L235-5) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.