Taipei: Transportation Minister Chen Shih-kai announced on Tuesday that tougher penalties proposed by his ministry for drug-impaired driving could take effect as soon as the end of 2026. The minister outlined a series of amendments aimed at tightening the regulations surrounding drug-impaired driving in the country.
According to Focus Taiwan, the proposed amendments to the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act would significantly increase the current penalties for drug-impaired driving. The changes include revoking a driver's license instead of merely suspending it for one to two years, with an added three-year ban on reapplying for a license for those found using Category 1 or Category 2 narcotics. This measure would apply regardless of whether the individual is caught driving or owns a vehicle, as a preventive strategy.
The proposal also stipulates that users of Category 3 or Category 4 narcotics would face a suspension of their driver's license. In addition, fines for first-time offenders would rise considerably, with motorists facing an increase from NT$30,000 (US$954) to NT$120,000 and motorcyclists from NT$15,000 to NT$90,000. Repeat offenses within a decade could see progressively higher fines without an upper limit.
A new penalty is proposed for passengers aged 18 or older who knowingly ride with drivers under the influence of narcotics. These passengers could face fines reaching up to NT$15,000. Minister Chen mentioned that the ministry plans to submit these proposed amendments to the Cabinet by the end of June. Following submission, the amendments will be reviewed and forwarded to the Legislature for further consideration. Chen expressed confidence that lawmakers share the concern about the issue of drug-impaired driving.