Drink Driving Limits Ireland 2026
| Driver Category | Breath Limit | Blood Limit | Urine Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary driver (full licence) | 22 μg/100ml | 50 mg/100ml | 67 mg/100ml |
| Professional / bus / truck driver | 9 μg/100ml | 20 mg/100ml | 27 mg/100ml |
| Learner / novice driver (L or N plates) | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Penalties for Drink Driving in Ireland
| Offence Category | Disqualification | Maximum Fine | Maximum Prison |
|---|---|---|---|
| First offence — lower range (50–80mg blood) | 3 months minimum | €500 | N/A (District Court) |
| First offence — higher range (80mg+) | 6 months minimum (mandatory) | €2,500 | 6 months |
| Second offence within 3 years | 2 years minimum | €2,500 | 6 months |
| Third or subsequent offence | 3–4 years minimum | €5,000 | 6 months |
| Refusal to provide sample | Same as drink driving | €5,000 | 6 months |
| Causing death or serious harm | 4 years minimum | Unlimited | Up to 10 years |
Penalty Points for Drink Driving in Ireland
Drink driving offences also carry penalty points on your driving licence. The current penalty point tariff for drink driving is up to 5 penalty points. Accumulating 12 or more penalty points within 3 years results in automatic disqualification for 6 months.
The Fixed Charge Notice (Lower Range)
For first offences in the lower range (50–80mg/100ml blood), a driver may receive a Fixed Charge Notice (the Irish equivalent of a fixed penalty notice). Payment of the fixed charge and acceptance of the 3-month disqualification disposes of the matter without a court appearance.
This option is not available for higher range offences, refusal to provide a sample, or second and subsequent offences — all of which require a mandatory court appearance.
Effect of Drink Driving Conviction on Car Insurance
A drink driving conviction must be disclosed to your motor insurer. Most standard insurers will refuse renewal or significantly increase premiums. Some specialist insurers in Ireland will cover drivers with convictions at higher premium rates. You should obtain quotes from specialist brokers after a conviction.
Can the Court Avoid Imposing a Disqualification?
No. Once convicted of drink driving in Ireland, the court has no discretion — disqualification is mandatory. The only way to avoid disqualification is to successfully defend the charge. A solicitor who secures a dismissal, a "not guilty" verdict, or a withdrawal of the charge avoids any penalty. Where conviction is inevitable, a solicitor can seek the minimum period and present mitigation for the fine.
How a Solicitor Can Help
A specialist drink driving solicitor will review the arrest procedure, the breathalyser evidence, and all Garda documentation for any procedural defects that could result in the charge being dismissed. Even where no technical defence is available, a skilled solicitor can ensure the minimum penalty is imposed and present mitigating circumstances effectively.
Find a drink driving solicitor in your county at Legal Index Ireland →