New analyses suggest drug driving is becoming an increasingly significant road safety issue, with offences now overtaking drink driving and repeat offending occurring at much higher rates.
Drug-driving offences have overtaken drink-driving offences for the first time, according to new analysis published by IAM RoadSmart using Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) endorsement data obtained through a Freedom of Information request.
The analysis found that 30,707 drug-driving endorsements (DG10) were issued in 2025, compared with 29,769 drink-driving endorsements (DR10). Drug-driving endorsements have increased by 28% since 2022, while drink-driving endorsements have fallen by 17% over the same period.
IAM RoadSmart also reported that drivers aged 17 to 24 accounted for almost one in five drug-driving endorsements, despite representing a much smaller proportion of licence holders. The organisation says the findings highlight the need for greater awareness of the risks associated with drug driving.
Separate analysis by the RAC points to a concerning pattern of repeat offending. Using DVLA data obtained through a Freedom of Information request, the RAC found that 12,391 motorists had been convicted of drug driving on at least three occasions during the 11 years to 20 July 2025. By comparison, 2,553 motorists received three or more drink-driving convictions over the same period.
The RAC also found that more than 41,000 licence holders had been convicted of drug driving more than once, while more than 4,000 provisional licence holders had already received drug-driving endorsements before passing their practical driving test.
Both organisations have called for stronger action to tackle the growing problem. IAM RoadSmart has highlighted the need for greater public awareness, while the RAC has renewed calls for a national drug-driving rehabilitation scheme similar to that available for drink-driving offenders.
For Driver Trainers, the findings reinforce the importance of discussing impairment with learners from the outset. While drink driving has long been the focus of road safety campaigns, there is often less awareness that illegal drugs, prescription medicines and some over-the-counter medications can all impair driving and may result in prosecution.
A drug-driving conviction carries serious consequences, including a minimum 12-month driving disqualification, an unlimited fine, up to six months’ imprisonment, a criminal record and significantly increased insurance premiums.
As drug-driving offences continue to rise, these findings underline the important role Driver Trainers play in helping learners understand the legal, safety and lifelong consequences of driving while impaired.
Sources
- IAM RoadSmart, Drug driving offences overtake drink driving for the first time (9 July 2026): https://www.mynewsdesk.com/uk/iam-roadsmarts-media-centre/pressreleases/drug-driving-offences-overtake-drink-driving-for-the-first-time-3457081
- RAC, More than 12,300 motorists caught drug-driving three or more times in the last 11 years (19 May 2026): https://media.rac.co.uk/more-than-12300-motorists-caught-drug-driving-three-or-more-times-in-the-last-11-years
