In Germany, the Medical-Psychological Assessment (MPU) is often required for violations related to drugs or alcohol.
With the legalization of cannabis, many affected individuals ask themselves:
“If I have to take an MPU due to hard drugs, can I still consume cannabis now that it’s legal?”
In this article, we clarify what needs to be considered during the MPU and the role of cannabis use, even if it is legal.
1. Legalization vs. Fitness to Drive
It is important to understand that the legalization of cannabis does not automatically mean that consumption is unrestricted for individuals required to take an MPU.
Even with legalization, road traffic remains an area with strict tolerance regarding drugs that can impair driving ability.
For the MPU, the focus is less on the legality of the substance and more on whether its use – in this case, cannabis – affects road safety and whether the individual is fit to participate in traffic.
2. Why Cannabis Can Be a Problem in the MPU – Even If Legal
For MPU assessors, it is not crucial whether cannabis is legal or not.
They are more interested in whether the individual leads a drug-free and responsible lifestyle that ensures traffic safety.
Regular cannabis use is considered a risk factor – not only because THC can impair reaction ability but also because it may indicate a continued risky consumption pattern.
The MPU often requires abstinence from all mind-altering substances.
Anyone who continues to use cannabis may give assessors the impression that they have not sufficiently reflected on their behavior or have not fully controlled their consumption habits.
3. The Difference Between “Occasional Use” and “Regular Use”
In some cases, occasional and controlled cannabis use may be allowed if it is very rare and not habitual.
However, caution is needed: The suspicion that consumption habits persist or that abstinence was only temporary is often enough to negatively impact an MPU.
Especially in an MPU related to hard drugs, assessors typically expect complete abstinence because trust in a sustainable lifestyle change is paramount.
4. Can I Make an Exception?
In very few cases and after a long period of abstinence, occasional, non-risky use may be tolerated – provided it is strictly limited to recreational use and is openly and reflectively discussed during medical examinations.
However, this is an exception and should always be reviewed with the support of a traffic psychologist who can assess whether occasional use is realistic or poses a risk to passing the MPU.
5. Abstinence Is Often the Safest Path
If the goal is to successfully pass the MPU and regain a driver’s license, the safest approach is often complete abstinence from cannabis.
This demonstrates to assessors:
- Honest insight and control over personal habits,
- Responsibility in dealing with psychoactive substances,
- Commitment to remaining drug-free to ensure traffic safety.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision
Although cannabis is legal, that does not mean its use during the MPU is advisable or allowed.
Especially for individuals undergoing an MPU due to hard drugs, a cautious and responsible approach is recommended.
Complete abstinence is often the clearest and safest option for passing the MPU.
A conscious decision about consumption demonstrates to assessors that one has regained the fitness and responsibility required for driving.
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