TALK about tailgating the wrong driver.

A man has been charged with drink-driving after he allegedly pulled in closely behind a car being driven in heavy rain by Assistant Police Commissioner Jeff Loy.

The 43-year-old, who was driving north on the M1 at Cooranbong on Friday afternoon, allegedly tailgated the Northern Region Commander before passing him at high speed.

The commander followed the car before pulling it over and giving the driver a roadside breath test.

The man was arrested and taken to Morisset Police Station where he allegedly returned a breath analysis reading of 0.110.

He was charged with mid-range drink-driving and has been ordered to appear in court on September 27.

His licence has also been suspended.