Drug Driving Offences Now Exceed Drink Driving: What Drivers Need to Know

Justin Atkinson

For decades, drink driving has been viewed as one of the most serious motoring offences in the UK. However, new figures suggest a shift is taking place. According to recent data, more drivers received licence endorsements for drug driving than drink driving in 2025 for the first time on record.

More than 30,700 motorists were convicted of drug driving offences (DG10), compared with just under 29,800 drink driving offences (DR10). The figures also show a worrying increase in offences among younger drivers aged 17 to 24.

These statistics highlight a growing issue on UK roads and serve as an important reminder that drug driving carries severe legal consequences, regardless of whether the drugs involved are illegal substances or prescribed medication.

Understanding Drug Driving Laws

Many motorists mistakenly believe drug driving laws only apply to illegal drugs such as cannabis or cocaine. In reality, the law is much broader.

It is an offence to drive if:

You are unfit to drive because of drugs, whether legal or illegal
You have certain specified drugs in your system above the legal limit
Prescription medication impairs your ability to drive

Even if a medication has been lawfully prescribed, you could still face prosecution if it affects your ability to drive safely.

Why Are Drug Driving Cases Increasing?

There are several factors that may explain the rise in drug driving offences.

Police forces across England and Wales have increased the use of roadside drug screening equipment, allowing officers to detect the presence of certain drugs quickly. Public awareness has also improved, leading to greater enforcement and prosecution. Roadside drug tests have returned consistently high positive rates in recent years, suggesting drug driving is becoming an increasingly significant road safety concern.

The Penalties For Drug Driving

A conviction for drug driving can have long-lasting consequences beyond the immediate sentence.

Depending on the circumstances, penalties may include:

A minimum 12-month driving disqualification
An unlimited fine
Up to six months' imprisonment
A criminal record
Increased insurance premiums
A drug driving endorsement remaining on your driving licence for 11 years

In the most serious cases, where drug driving results in a fatal collision, significantly more severe penalties can apply.

Young Drivers At Greater Risk

One of the most concerning findings is the disproportionate number of young motorists convicted of drug driving offences.

Although drivers aged between 17 and 24 represent only a small proportion of UK licence holders, they accounted for almost one in five drug driving endorsements in 2025. This suggests education and awareness remain essential in reducing offending among newer drivers.

What Should You Do If You Are Accused Of Drug Driving?

Being stopped by the police on suspicion of drug driving is serious and can be extremely worrying.

If you are arrested or charged:

Co-operate with the police during roadside procedures
Seek legal advice as early as possible
Do not assume that taking prescribed medication automatically provides a defence
Obtain representation before attending any police interview where appropriate

Every case is different, and the available defences will depend on the individual circumstances, including the evidence gathered by the police and the type of substance involved.

Seeking Legal Advice

A conviction for drug driving can affect your employment, insurance, ability to travel and everyday independence. Early legal advice can help you understand the allegations, assess the evidence and ensure your rights are protected throughout the investigation and any court proceedings.

If you have been accused of drug driving or have received a summons to attend court, speaking with our experienced motoring offence solicitors at the earliest opportunity can help you understand your options and prepare the strongest possible defence.

If you need clear, practical legal advice, contact our team today to discuss your case in confidence.