If you’ve ever wondered what could happen if you’re caught drink driving in Singapore, you’re not alone. With strict laws in place, even a first-time offence can lead to heavy consequences. The drink driving penalty in Singapore isn’t just a slap on the wrist – it’s a legal matter that can affect your record, livelihood, and even your freedom.
Singapore takes road safety seriously, and rightly so. A single act of poor judgment behind the wheel could put lives at risk.
This blog unpacks the drunk driving penalty in Singapore, including what the law says, what you can expect if you’re caught, and how a good lawyer can help.
Understanding The Offence
In Singapore, drunk driving is not just a traffic violation—it’s a criminal offence. The law is clear under Section 67 of the Road Traffic Act: if you’re caught driving or attempting to drive while under the influence of alcohol, and you’re unable to control the vehicle properly, you can be charged.
The legal alcohol limit is 35 micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath or 80 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood. That’s not a lot—it could take as little as one or two drinks depending on your body weight and how quickly your body processes alcohol. It’s also important to know that the offence doesn’t just apply to moving vehicles.
The moment you’re suspected of drink driving, the police have the authority to stop you and conduct a breathalyser test. Failing this initial test means you’ll be escorted for a more precise breath or blood analysis at the station. If the results show you’re over the legal limit, you’ll be formally charged, and the legal process begins.
Drink Driving Penalty In Singapore
The drunk driving penalty in Singapore is intentionally severe to discourage risky behaviour on the roads. The penalties increase based on whether it’s your first or a repeated offence.
For first-time offenders, the penalty for drunk driving in Singapore includes:
- A fine between $2,000 and $10,000
- Imprisonment of up to 12 months (depending on how severe the offence was)
- Mandatory disqualification from driving for at least 2 years
This disqualification means you cannot hold or obtain a driver’s licence during that period. The disqualification can be longer if the Court believes you pose a continued risk on the road.
For repeat offenders, the Court imposes even tougher punishments:
- A fine between $5,000 and $20,000
- A jail term of up to 2 years, which is often mandatory
- Driving ban for at least 5 years, or even a lifetime disqualification in serious cases
Aggravating Factors That Make Things Worse
Not all drunk driving cases are treated equally. Some circumstances—known as aggravating factors—can result in even harsher penalties, because they show a greater disregard for public safety.
Here are some examples of what could make your situation worse:
- Causing injury or death: If your drunk driving results in someone getting hurt or killed, expect a significantly heavier sentence, with a strong likelihood of jail time.
- Dangerous driving behaviour: Speeding, reckless swerving, or ignoring traffic signals while intoxicated can influence how the Court punishes you.
- Refusal to provide a breath or blood sample: Refusing a test may be treated as though you’re trying to avoid detection, and the law punishes this on par with drunk driving.
- Having minors in the car: Driving under the influence while children are passengers is taken very seriously and will count against you in Court.
- Very high alcohol levels: If your alcohol reading is significantly over the legal limit, this can be used to argue that your judgment and control were dangerously impaired.
What Happens After You’re Caught
Getting caught drunk driving in Singapore isn’t just a bad night—it’s the start of a serious legal process that can impact your freedom, your job, and your future.
It all begins when you’re stopped at a roadblock or during a routine check. If the police think you’ve been drinking, they’ll ask you to blow into a breathalyser on the spot. This test gives them a quick reading of your alcohol level. If you’re over the limit—or if you refuse to take the test—you’ll be taken straight to the police station.
At the station, you’ll need to do a more accurate breath or blood test. If your results show you’ve had too much to drink, you’ll be formally charged with drunk driving.
From there, things move fast. Your driving licence may be suspended immediately, and you’ll be released on bail with a date to appear in Court.
When that day comes, you’ll need to plead guilty or not guilty. If you plead guilty, the Court will decide your sentence. If you plead not guilty, your case will go to trial, and the police will present their evidence—like your test results or how you were behaving when you were stopped.
At this point, having a lawyer isn’t just helpful—it can be a game-changer. A good lawyer will look at your case, speak up for you in Court, and guide you on what to expect. In some situations, they may even help you get a lighter sentence, especially if you’ve shown remorse, have a clean record, or took steps to make things right.
But once you’re convicted, the consequences kick in:
- You could be fined, jailed, or banned from driving.
- It goes on your criminal record, which can affect your job and travel plans.
- If you drive for a living, you could even lose your job.
Conclusion About Penalty For Drink Driving In Singapore
Drink driving is not something to take lightly, and the drink driving penalty in Singapore reflects just how seriously the law treats it. Whether you’re a first-time offender or facing a second charge, the consequences can be life-changing.
If you or someone you know is facing such a charge, don’t wait. Reach out to Tembusu Law – the best criminal lawyers in Singapore – and let us guide you through the legal process with clarity, professionalism, and strong representation.
Contact us today and get free legal consultation for your legal questions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Penalty For Drink Driving In Singapore
What Is The Legal Alcohol Limit For Drivers In Singapore?
The legal limit is 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath or 80 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood.
Can I Go To Jail For Drink Driving In Singapore?
Yes, imprisonment is possible even for first-time offenders, especially if there are aggravating factors like injuries or refusal to cooperate.
Will I Lose My Driving Licence If Caught Drink Driving?
Yes, disqualification is mandatory. For first-time offenders, it’s at least 2 years, and longer for repeat offenders.
Can I Appeal My Drink Driving Sentence?
Yes, but you will need valid grounds for appeal and legal representation to make your case effectively in Court.
What Happens If I Refuse A Breathalyser Test?
Refusing to take a breath or blood test is itself an offence and carries penalties similar to drink driving, including fines and imprisonment.
