Where a driver shows signs they are under the influence of drug(s), Police may require a driver to undergo a Compulsory Impairment Test (CIT) instead of conducting a roadside drug screening test.
A CIT is a behavioural assessment for impairment, including eye, walk and turn, and 1-leg-stand assessments undertaken by a specially trained police officer. It is part of current policing practice and will continue to be used to test drivers for impairment.
If a driver fails a CIT, it may result in a blood test which will be tested in the laboratory. A positive blood test has different enforcement outcomes compared to a roadside drug test with saliva.
Police do not need good cause to suspect a driver has consumed drugs for roadside drug driving testing. Any driver at any time could be stopped and be required to undergo a drug screening test.
Alternative testing
A driver cannot choose to have a CIT or blood test as an alternative to roadside saliva screening. The Land Transport Act 1998 does not provide election rights, exemptions, or alternative pathways for drivers to choose a different type of testing method.