Roadside Drug Testing: What Employers Need to Know

The New Zealand Government has confirmed the introduction of random roadside drug testing, with Police already beginning rollout in some regions and wider national implementation continuing through 2026.

This change forms part of the Road to Zero strategy and is aimed at reducing drug-related harm on New Zealand roads.

While the testing regime applies to all drivers, it has important implications for employers, particularly where employees drive for work, operate company vehicles, or perform safety-critical roles.

What Is Changing

Police now have the authority to stop any driver and carry out a saliva (oral fluid) screening test at the roadside.

If both roadside tests return a positive result:

  • The driver will receive a 12-hour stand down from driving

  • They must not drive any vehicle during this period

  • An employer cannot direct or allow them to continue driving

  • A laboratory test will later confirm whether an infringement is issued

It’s important to note that a stand down is a safety measure, not a determination of fault.

On its own, it does not automatically trigger disciplinary action or confirm wrongdoing.

Police will screen for:

  • Cannabis (THC)

  • Methamphetamine and other amphetamines

  • MDMA

  • Cocaine

  • Certain substances that may be present due to prescription medication and can impair driving

Even lawfully prescribed medication can affect driving ability and may result in a stand down.

Why This Matters for Employers

Employers have a duty to ensure workers are fit to drive whenever they are performing work-related duties.

The roadside testing regime increases the need for:

  • Clear expectations around impairment and fitness for duty

  • Up-to-date policies that reflect roadside testing and stand downs

  • Immediate reporting processes for employees

  • Awareness of how prescription medication may impact driving

  • Understanding of potential insurance implications

  • Practical procedures for managing sudden stand downs, including during the workday

Stand downs may occur:

  • During work hours

  • After hours

  • In remote or regional locations

This means employers need to be prepared to manage:

  • Worker safety

  • Vehicle recovery

  • Alternative duties

  • Client delays or operational disruption

What Employers Should Do Now

1. Review and Update Policies

Ensure the following documents clearly reflect roadside drug testing, stand downs, and employee notification obligations:

  • Drug and Alcohol Policy

  • Vehicle Use Policy

  • Disciplinary Policy

To make this easier, we’ve created a Policy Update Checklist you can download, print, and work through step by step.

2. Communicate Clearly with Staff

Employees should understand:

  • Police may now carry out roadside drug testing

  • Prescription medication can impact their ability to drive

  • They must notify the business immediately if they are stood down or receive an infringement

  • Alternative duties may be required if driving is unsafe or not permitted

  • Support is available if they have concerns or questions

Any information relating to roadside testing or fitness to drive should be handled sensitively and in line with privacy obligations.

3. Check Your Insurance Position

Many insurance policies may not provide cover if a driver has drugs present in their system, even where medication is prescribed.

We recommend:

  • Confirming your insurer’s requirements

  • Making sure staff understand the implications

4. Review Roles That Involve Driving

Take time to identify:

  • Who drives for work

  • Which roles are safety-critical

  • Whether alternative duties are available during a stand down

  • How managers should respond if a stand down occurs

Also consider practical issues such as:

  • Vehicle recovery

  • Transport for the employee

  • Managing missed or delayed client work

5. Include Contractors and Temporary Staff

Your expectations should apply equally to:

  • Contractors

  • Temporary staff

  • Volunteers

  • Anyone driving on behalf of your business

How People Passion Can Help

We can support you to:

  • Update your Drug and Alcohol and Vehicle Use Policies

  • Create clear, practical communication for your team

  • Deliver toolbox talks or driver-specific guidance

  • Review risk for safety-critical roles

  • Train managers on how to respond to stand downs or infringements

  • Strengthen processes and documentation so decisions are made safely and confidently

If you’d like help working through this change, or want support using our Policy Update Checklist, get in touch.

Download the checklist
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