Warning of ‘drug-driving epidemic’ as offences overtake drink-driving for the first time 08.07.2026

Britain is facing a "drug-driving epidemic" as new data from IAM RoadSmart reveals that drug-driving offences have surpassed drink-driving for the first time. In 2025, 30,707 endorsements for drug-driving were added to licences, marking a 28 per cent increase from three years ago, while drink-driving endorsements fell to 29,981. The Department for Transport described these findings as "deeply concerning," noting that 74 people died in 2024 in crashes where drug use was a contributory factor. Young drivers aged 17-24 are disproportionately affected, accounting for 18 per cent of endorsements despite being only 6 per cent of licence holders. In response, the government is reviewing penalties and exploring new forensic testing methods, such as saliva or sweat samples, to ensure swift consequences for those endangering road users.


















