Motoring offences
Drink driving
Moore Motoring Law provides advice and representation at courts across the country for drivers charged with driving with excess alcohol. It is essential to seek legal advice as soon as you are arrested or charged.
Last reviewed: 2 August 2026
The drink drive limits (England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
- Breath
- 35µg per 100ml
- Blood
- 80mg per 100ml
- Urine
- 107mg per 100ml
How alcohol affects you depends on factors including height, weight, age, sex, metabolism, what you have eaten, the drinks consumed and the time between drinking and driving.
The offence and the penalties
It is an offence to drive, or attempt to drive, a vehicle after consuming too much alcohol.
If you plead guilty or are found guilty after a trial, you could face a fine, a community order or a prison sentence — and you will be banned from driving unless there are special reasons not to disqualify you. The actual penalty depends on the circumstances of the offence and how far over the legal limit you were: the court will be referred to the Magistrates’ Court Sentencing Guidelines, and must give reasons if it departs from them.
Reducing the length of a ban
Moore Motoring Law may be able to help reduce your driving ban by seeking a drink-drive rehabilitation scheme (DDRS) course, which can reduce the length of your ban by 25%.
How we can help
Our solicitors can advise whether there is a defence to the charge, or any special reasons not to disqualify you from driving. What matters most is getting honest, expert advice early — before your court date.
Free initial telephone advice
Get the right advice as early as possible
It is important you contact Moore Motoring Law as soon as possible to ensure you get the best advice for your circumstances. Free initial telephone advice.