Drivers face being ‘disqualified for one year’ if they break major DVLA rule

The DVLA could “ban drivers” for up to one year for making a major mistake while behind the wheel. Being caught under the influence of drugs is a serious motoring offence, with road users at risk of punishments including a driving ban. Having illegal drugs in your blood could be enough to see motorists lose their freedom to drive.

However, many are unaware that legally prescribed medication could still land road users in big trouble and may lead to their driving licence being revoked. This is because some legal medications can affect motorists' ability behind the wheel, slowing reaction times, and therefore becoming a risk on the road.

GOV.UK said: “You can be disqualified from driving for at least one year if you’re found guilty of drug driving. Depending on your offence, you can also be fined or sent to prison. You must apply for a new licence before you can drive again.”

Motorists have been told to talk to their doctor about whether they should continue to drive if they are currently taking any of the following drugs.

This includes any amphetamines, for example, dexamphetamine or selegiline.

Taking clonazepam, diazepam, flunitrazepam or lorazepam could be a major concern while methadone, morphine or opiate and opioid-based drugs are also a risk.

Officials also suggest that oxazepam or temazepam may also affect driving and could put motorists at risk.

GOV.UK said: “It’s illegal in England, Scotland and Wales to drive with legal drugs in your body if it impairs your driving.

“It’s an offence to drive if you have over the specified limits of certain drugs in your blood and you have not been prescribed them.”

As well as losing their freedom to travel, a drug driving conviction can also come with other consequences later down the line.

GOV.UK warns that car insurance costs will likely increase significantly after motorists have been slapped with a conviction.

The specialists warned that it could also affect motorists' ability to secure a driving-related job in later life.

This is because driving licences will also show road users have been convicted for drug driving which will remain on a record for up to 11 years.