💊 Drug Driving
Drug Driving in Belgium
Belgium has a strict zero-tolerance policy for drug driving. Unlike alcohol, there is no minimum threshold: the mere presence of a controlled substance in your blood constitutes an offence, regardless of the quantity or when it was consumed.
Substances tested
🌿 Cannabis / THC
⚗ Cocaine
💊 Amphetamines / MDMA
💉 Opiates / Heroin
How roadside testing works
- Saliva test at the roadside (DrugTest device)
- If positive: mandatory blood sample taken
- Laboratory analysis — results in 2 to 4 weeks
- The blood test result is what counts in court
⚠
Cannabis & detection window: THC remains detectable in blood for several hours to several days after consumption, long after any psychoactive effects have worn off. This is not a valid defence under Belgian law.
Penalties
| Penalty | Detail |
|---|---|
| Offence degree | 3rd degree — serious offence |
| On-the-spot fine | €174 (non-Belgian residents) |
| Court fine | €400 – €4,000 |
| Driving ban | 8 days to 5 years (very common) |
| Repeat offence | Significantly higher penalties |
Can I contest a positive drug test?
Yes. Grounds include challenging the testing procedure (chain of custody of samples), or a legitimate prescription for certain controlled medications. A lawyer specialised in Belgian traffic law can review your case.
Your insurance may cover your lawyer
Legal protection insurance covers legal fees in full for most traffic offences. We check your policy for free.