We’ve found that our medical cannabis patients often have questions about driving – Can I still drive with a prescription? Will I test positive on a drug test? What happens if I get stopped by the police? There’s a lot of uncertainty, and the rules can be confusing.
In this article, we’ll cover the basics of what you can and can’t do when it comes to driving with medical cannabis in the UK. Understanding your rights and responsibilities is key to staying safe and compliant with the law.
Yes, you can – but only if you’re safe to do so. UK law allows medical cannabis patients to drive as long as:
Most likely, yes. Roadside drug tests can’t tell the difference between medical and recreational cannabis, so even if you’re legally prescribed and not impaired, you could still test positive for THC.
This is why it’s essential to carry proof of your prescription – just in case. We recommend keeping:
If you’re ever stopped by the police, having these documents handy can help avoid misunderstandings.
If the police stop you and conduct a drug test, let them know you have a medical cannabis prescription and show your proof.
UK law includes a medical defence, which means that as long as you’re taking your medication as prescribed and are not impaired, you’re not breaking the law. However, if the police believe you’re impaired, they may conduct further assessments, like a field sobriety test. If you are found to be impaired, you could face legal consequences.
Not usually. The DVLA only needs to know about medical conditions that could affect your ability to drive safely – not your prescriptions.
Some doctors suggest informing the DVLA and your insurance provider as a precaution, just in case of an accident. If you’re unsure, have a quick chat with your prescriber for guidance.
This depends on you! Everyone reacts differently, but research suggests that the effects of THC on reaction time and concentration typically last around four hours.
If you’ve just started medical cannabis or changed your dosage, it’s best to wait until you know how it affects you before driving. When in doubt, take a break from the driver’s seat.
Absolutely – but follow these simple precautions:
While THC can affect reaction times, studies suggest that medical cannabis patients may pose less risk than recreational users. In some cases, treating conditions like chronic pain or multiple sclerosis with medical cannabis has even improved driving ability by reducing symptoms that could otherwise make driving difficult.
That said, THC can still impair judgment and concentration, so it’s all about knowing your limits. If you’re unsure whether you’re fit to drive, it’s always best to play it safe.
As medical cannabis use grows in the UK, there may be future updates to driving laws to better accommodate patients. More awareness and research could lead to clearer guidance and improved protections for responsible medical cannabis users.
Driving with a medical cannabis prescription is legal, but it comes with responsibility. To stay safe and avoid any issues:
By staying informed and prepared, you can drive with confidence while staying on the right side of the law. If you have any concerns about how your medication may affect your driving, please speak with us.
You can also check out this useful resource all about ‘Cannabis & Driving’ from the Cannabis Industry Council (CIC).
For more information about medical cannabis prescriptions, visit CB1 Medical.