Drink & drug driving

Limits, evidential procedures, disqualification, and rehabilitation.

Drink and drug driving carry mandatory disqualification and possible custody. The evidential procedure at the police station has formal requirements that can be challenged when not followed.
  • Drink driving: limits, evidence, and consequences

    Understand drink driving allegations in England and Wales, from roadside testing and evidential samples to the mandatory ban, court process, possible defences, sentencing, insurance consequences and the practical steps that matter after an arrest or charge.

  • Drink-drive rehabilitation course (DDRC)

    A drink-drive rehabilitation course can reduce an eligible alcohol-related driving ban by up to a quarter, but only where the sentencing court makes an offer and the approved course is completed by its deadline. It does not erase the conviction, endorsement or relicensing requirements.

  • Drug driving under section 5A

    Section 5A drug driving is a blood-limit offence in England and Wales: impairment need not be proved. This guide explains testing, prescribed-medication issues, court process, mandatory bans, evidence, practical preparation and the separate impairment offence.

  • Failing to provide a specimen

    Failing to provide a required breath, blood or urine specimen is a serious England and Wales motoring offence. A lawful requirement, the statutory warning and any genuine medical inability can be crucial issues, while conviction can mean a lengthy ban, criminal record and substantial financial consequences.