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Egypt has made drug testing a key requirement for obtaining a driving license under new regulations stipulated by the Ministry of Interior and published in the Official Gazette on 21 September.

The updated rules tighten the conditions for issuing driving licenses, making medical fitness a decisive part of the process.

Applicants must undergo a comprehensive health examination that includes assessing the general physical condition and hearing ability of the applicant, ensuring they are fit to operate a vehicle.

They will also undergo a compulsory drug test to confirm they are free of narcotics.

This measure also includes screening for chest diseases, leprosy, epilepsy, and mental illnesses that could impair driving ability.

This will be supported by a vision test that assesses their eyesight capacity and a recording of the applicant’s blood type for medical reference.

Under Article 261 of the revised regulations, these examinations will be carried out by governorate-level medical commissions and designated centers.

Applicants may be asked to retake tests, and medical clearance automatically expires if license procedures are not completed within 90 days.

This clause ensures that licenses are tied to up-to-date medical evaluations, preventing delays or misuse of outdated certificates.

The Interior Ministry said the updated rules aim to improve road safety, protect public health, and bring Egypt’s licensing procedures in line with international standards.

By making drug tests compulsory, the ministry hopes to curb substance abuse among drivers, reduce accidents linked to impaired driving, and ensure that only medically fit and drug-free applicants receive licenses.

Source: Al-Ahram Online