Driving Under Influence: Testing

Bob Russell
To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what guidance she issues to police forces on (a) training given to police officers in undertaking (i) field impairment tests and (ii) preliminary impairment tests and (b) the frequency of refresher training; and if she will make a statement.

Mr. McNulty
The Home Office does not issue formal guidance to police officers nationally on field impairment tests, or refresher training. The Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) and the Department of Transport run a mandatory field impairment test (FIT) and drug recognition training (DRT) for police officers who wish to be authorised to conduct impairment testing in compliance with the Road Traffic Act 1988. Successful completion is based on the candidate's ability to pass an exam and demonstrate competence in impairment testing.

Currently, only Hampshire Constabulary and Northamptonshire police are authorised by ACPO to provide formal FIT and DRT to police officers.