Driving after drugs in the United Kingdom (2026)

Last reviewed: 9 October 2026

In short: In England and Wales it is an offence to drive with more than 2 µg/l THC in the blood. A medical defence exists for drugs taken as prescribed and as directed.

RuleWhat applies
Approach to cannabis (THC)Driving a car after drug use; England and WalesNumeric limit [1]
THC thresholdDriving a car after drug use; England and Wales2 µg/l THC in blood [2]
Prescribed medicinesDriving a car after drug use; England and WalesException for prescribed medicine [1]
Police screening testDriving a car after drug use; England and WalesYes [3]
Main sanctionsDriving a car after drug use; England and WalesUnlimited fine, up to 6 months in prison and a driving ban of at least 1 year [4]

Notes

  • The limits regulations read are for England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland were not checked.
  • A defence applies if the drug was prescribed or supplied for medical purposes and taken as directed.

Sources

  1. legislation.gov.uk: Road Traffic Act 1988, section 5A (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  2. legislation.gov.uk: The Drug Driving (Specified Limits) (England and Wales) Regulations 2014 (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  3. legislation.gov.uk: Road Traffic Act 1988, section 6C (Preliminary drug test) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  4. GOV.UK: Drugs and driving: the law (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.