In NSW, police have the powers to stop drivers at random to test for alcohol consumption. If you are asked by police to undertake a breath test and subsequently obtain a reading that is higher than your prescribed concentration of alcohol (PCA) level, you are likely to be arrested and charged with one of the following:

  • Low Range PCA: 0.05-0.08
  • Mid Range PCA: 0.08-0.15
  • High Range PCA: 0.15 and higher
  • Novice Range: 0 – 0.05
  • Special Range PCA: 0 – 0.05
  • Refuse Breath Analysis

The penalties for drink driving are severe and the subsequent impact on your life can be significant. If you have been charged with an offence of this type you should seek legal advice immediately.

The details below outline the penalties related to common drink driving charges.

Low Range PCA

1st Offence:$1,100 Fine, Automatic Licence Suspension for 6 months (with a minimum of 3 months)

2nd Offence:$2,200 Fine, Automatic Licence Suspension for 12 months (with a minimum of 6 months)


Mid Range PCA

1st Offence:$2,200 Fine, Automatic Licence Suspension for 12 months (with a minimum of 6 months), Gaol for up to 9 months

2nd Offence:$3,300 Fine, Automatic Licence Suspension for 3 years (with a minimum of 12 months), Gaol for up to 12 months


High Range PCA

1st Offence:$3,300 Fine, Automatic Licence Suspension for 3 years (with a minimum of 12 months), Gaol for up to 18 months

2nd Offence:$5,500 Fine, Automatic Licence Suspension for 5 years (with a minimum of 2 years), Gaol for up to 2 years.

Of course, to obtain the best possible result it is important to prepare the case thoroughly and put forward persuasive arguments before the court. Our appointed lawyers have many years of experience with these types of matters.

If you would like to speak with one of our traffic lawyers, please phone our office on 02 9024 9530 or drop us an email using the contact form to the right.

The initial consultation is absolutely free and carries no obligations. If your licence has been suspended, please let us know - we may be able to arrange a home visit at a time that suits you.