The Driver5 min read
Drugs and medication
The effects of drugs and medication on driving, the possible checks and the severe penalties incurred.
Updated 13 June 2026
What this lesson covers
Drugs: a major danger behind the wheel
The effects of drugs on driving
Drug tests
Penalties for driving under the influence of drugs
Medication: an often underestimated risk
The driver's responsibility
In summary: the golden rule
Recap
- One fatal accident in five involves a driver who tests positive for drugs.
- The alcohol-drug combination multiplies the risk of a fatal accident by 29.
- Drugs alter depth perception and distort vision, in addition to narrowing the field of vision.
- Cannabis THC remains detectable for 24 hours in the blood and several weeks in urine.
- Drug penalties: 4,500 euros fine, 6 points deducted, up to 2 years in prison; with alcohol: 9,000 euros and 3 years.
- Three pictogram levels on medicines: yellow (caution), orange (medical advice), red (driving prohibited).
- Always read the leaflet and consult a healthcare professional before driving whilst on medication.
This lesson is part of the Pass
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Unlock with the PassSources: Sécurité routière (securite-routiere.gouv.fr) and service-public.fr.