Driving or attempting to drive whilst above the legal limit or unfit through drink carries a maximum penalty of 6 months imprisonment, a fine of up to £5,000, 3 to 11 points on your driving licence (if you do not get disqualified) and a minimum 12 months driving ban.

A conviction leading to an endorsement for a drink-driving offence remains on a driving licence for 11 years, so it is 11 years before a convicted driver will have a “clean” licence again.

Being in charge of a vehicle whilst over the legal limit or unfit through drink could result in 3 months imprisonment, a fine of up to £2,500, and a driving ban. That means the driver must be in the vehicle and possess the vehicle’s car keys. The car doesn’t even need to be running or moving.

• Refusing a breath test  – If you are convicted of refusing to take a breath test, the penalty for refusing to provide a specimen of breath, blood or urine for analysis is a maximum of 6 months imprisonment, up to £5000 fine and may lead to a driving ban of at least 12 months.
• Causing death by careless driving – If you are facing conviction for causing death by careless driving while under the influence of drink or drugs, you may face a maximum penalty of up to 14 years in prison, plus a minimum driving ban of 2 years and a requirement to pass an extended driving test before you can drive legally again.

If you are convicted of drink driving…

• A drink driving conviction will lead to a criminal record, which may influence your ability to apply for specific jobs.
• You cannot drive a motor vehicle for at least a year.
• Your job or employment may rely on you using a motor vehicle if you cannot fulfil your job role your employers may have to release you.
• Your car insurance costs will go up, and you may not be able to get any insurance at all.
• You may have to sell your car at a reduced rate.
• You will have difficulty renting or hiring a car or motor vehicle for at least the next 12 years.