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The government is to start trials of new drug tests for motorists next year, it has been announced.
Manufacturers will now have to develop testing equipment that can detect street drugs such as cannabis, ecstasy or cocaine.
It is unclear if a "legal limit" such as the alcohol limit will be introduced.
The new testing equipment will is expected to be in use in police stations within a year and introduced across Britain within two years.
Transport minister Mike Penning said: "It is vital that the police have the tools they need to tackle those who drive while impaired by drugs.
"This selfish minority show a flagrant disregard, not only for their own lives, but for the safety of others and we are determined to tackle this menace.
"That is why we are taking urgent steps to make drug screening technology available as soon as possible."
At present if police suspect a motorist of being under the influence of drugs, a doctor must be called and a blood sample taken.
It is thought that the current conviction rate for 'drug driving' does not reflect the scale of the problem.
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