Overview

• The April 11 circular requires proof that substances actively impair driving ability at the time of control, overturning prior zero-tolerance measures.
• Drivers can only be penalized if substances were taken shortly before driving and active metabolites are detected in saliva or blood tests.
• Saliva tests are now the primary preliminary check, followed by forensic analysis of controlled samples for confirmation.
• Urine tests and inactive metabolites are excluded from enforcement, and therapeutic use of prescribed opioids or psychotropic drugs is exempt from penalties.
• The Ministry of Transport asserts the updated rules align with the zero-drug policy, while a constitutional review of the November 2024 reform is still pending.