Alcohol, Drugs & Demerit Points
Alcohol and drugs impair driving, and new drivers face stricter rules. Staying sober protects lives and your licence.
Alcohol limits
A fully licensed driver must stay under 0.05. Novice drivers (learners and provisional drivers) are held to a stricter, lower limit than fully licensed drivers, so the safest choice is not to drink at all before driving. Confirm the exact novice figure with the official source.
Drug driving
It is an offence to drive with certain illegal drugs present in your body, and police conduct roadside drug testing. Some prescription and over-the-counter medicines can also impair driving, so read labels and seek advice.
Demerit points
Demerit points are recorded against your licence for driving offences. Reaching the demerit point limit leads to suspension or disqualification, and new drivers have less margin for error. Confirm current figures with the official source.