Dry Season’s Over—Don’t Get Caught Out by NT Drink Driving Laws
As the Dry Season comes to an end, many Territorians are enjoying the last of the warm weather with social events and celebrations. But if you’ve received a summons or notice to appear for a drink driving offence, it’s important to understand what you’re facing. Under the Traffic Act NT 1987, drink driving offences are based on your blood alcohol level, not whether you appear impaired. In other words, you don’t need to look drunk for police to charge you.
Types of Drink Driving Offences in the NT
There are three categories of Drink Driving offences:
- High Range Drink Driving
- Medium Range Drink Driving
- Low Range Drink Driving
Each carries different penalties depending on whether it’s a first or subsequent offence.
High Range Drink Driving
- First Offence:
- 10 penalty units or up to 12 months imprisonment
- Minimum licence disqualification of 12 months
- Second or Subsequent Offence:
- 20 penalty units or up to 12 months imprisonment
- Minimum licence disqualification of 18 months
- If disqualified for less than 5 years, an Alcohol Ignition Lock (AIL) period of 12 months to 3 years applies after disqualification
Medium Range Drink Driving
- First Offence:
- 7.5 penalty units or up to 6 months imprisonment
- Minimum licence disqualification of 6 months
- Second or Subsequent Offence:
- 20 penalty units or up to 12 months imprisonment
- Minimum licence disqualification of 12 months
- AIL period of 12 months to 3 years if disqualified for less than 5 years
Low Range Drink Driving
- First Offence:
- 5 penalty units or up to 3 months imprisonment
- Minimum licence disqualification of 3 months
- Second or Subsequent Offence:
- 7.5 penalty units or up to 6 months imprisonment
- Minimum licence disqualification of 6 months
Who Must Have a Zero Alcohol Limit in the NT?
Certain drivers must maintain a zero blood alcohol content when driving, including:
- Drivers under 18
- Learner licence holders
- Provisional licence holders
- Unlicensed drivers
- Non-residents without a right to drive under section 32(1)
Before You Go to Court
Before attending court, it’s essential to understand your rights and how the circumstances of your case might affect the outcome. Speaking to an experienced drink driving lawyer in Darwin can help you make informed decisions about how to proceed.
Call our Darwin team today us on (08) 7929 1000
Email us at: darwin@tgb.com.au
Find out more on our Darwin office page