DKT- A drink-driving conviction means your licence or learner permit is cancelled.
- Before getting it back you must complete a Behaviour Change Program.
- An alcohol interlock must be fitted in any vehicle you drive: at least 6 months, or at least 12 months for repeat offenders.
This page goes further than the summary in zero BAC and drink driving. The handbook describes drink-driving penalties as severe.
First offence cancellation periods
| Who and what BAC | Cancellation |
|---|---|
| Learner or probationary, BAC from zero to under .05 | 3 months |
| Learner or probationary, BAC from .05 to under .1 | 6 months |
| Full licence holder under 26, BAC from .05 to under .1 | 6 months |
| Anyone, BAC of .1 or more | Depends on the BAC (cancellation and interlock condition both vary) |
Repeat offences
A repeat drink-driving conviction means cancellation for at least 12 months, then a mandatory Intensive Drink and Drug Driver Behaviour Change Program, and an alcohol interlock for 12 months or more once you are relicensed.
Other consequences
- If your licence is cancelled you start again on your learner permit or probationary licence.
- You may also face a heavy fine and your vehicle may be impounded. See vehicle impoundment.
- If you refuse a breath or blood alcohol test, you must also fit an alcohol interlock for at least six months when relicensed.
- A full licence holder who needs a court order for an alcohol or drug offence gets a three-year zero BAC restriction when the licence is reissued. An interlock may be a condition of it.
Supervising a learner
It is illegal to drink alcohol while supervising a learner driver, just as it is while driving. Supervising drivers must also stay under .05. See breath testing to learn how you can be tested.
Based on the Victorian Road to Solo Driving handbook and the VicRoads learner and probationary pages. Rules change from time to time, so check vicroads.vic.gov.au for the latest.
Quick answers
What is the penalty for drink driving as a learner or P plater in Victoria?
Your permit or licence is cancelled (3 months for a first offence under .05, 6 months from .05 to under .1), and you must complete a Behaviour Change Program and fit an alcohol interlock when relicensed.
How long is the alcohol interlock requirement in Victoria?
At least 6 months after relicensing, and at least 12 months for repeat offenders.