Last Updated on 23 October 2026
Our drink driving solicitors are here to help if you have been charged with a drink driving offence.
Drink driving convictions
A drink driving allegation is often viewed as a motoring matter. In reality, it is far more serious than that.
One of the most common questions we hear is: “How long will a drink driving conviction stay on my licence?”
Most drink driving convictions remain on your driving record for 11 years from the date of conviction. This includes offences such as driving over the prescribed alcohol limit, driving whilst unfit through drink, and failing to provide a specimen.
While your driving ban may last for a matter of months or years, the conviction itself can continue to appear on your DVLA record long after you have regained your licence.
Many otherwise law-abiding people are surprised to learn that a drink driving conviction is a criminal conviction rather than simply a driving offence.
A conviction may affect employment opportunities, professional reputation, international travel plans, and other areas of everyday life. This is one of the reasons why obtaining legal advice at an early stage is so important.
The consequences of a drink driving conviction extend beyond the driving ban
Many motorists focus on the period of disqualification. However, the long-term consequences of a conviction are often far greater.
A drink driving conviction can lead to:
- Increased insurance premiums
- Difficulties obtaining affordable motor insurance
- Problems where driving forms part of your employment
- Questions from current or prospective employers
- Difficulties hiring vehicles
- Potential implications for certain professions and regulated occupations
For business owners, professionals, and those whose work depends on driving, the impact can continue long after the ban has ended.
Dealing with a drink driving charge: Why legal advice from specialist drink driving solicitors matters
It is a common misconception that once a person has been charged with drink driving, the outcome is inevitable.
Every case should be assessed on its own facts. Issues can arise concerning the evidence, police procedures, or the circumstances of the allegation. In some cases, these issues may have a significant impact on the outcome.
Even where a conviction cannot be avoided, specialist legal representation can help ensure that your case is presented as strongly as possible and that all relevant mitigation is placed before the court.
As experienced criminal defence solicitors, we can advise you throughout the proceedings, represent you at court hearings, and make detailed submissions on your behalf regarding sentence, disqualification, and any factors that may assist your case. Having an experienced advocate presenting your circumstances to the court can make a significant difference to the outcome.
The decisions made at the outset of a drink driving case can have consequences that last for many years.
How our expert drink driving solicitors can help you
As privately funded criminal defence solicitors, we provide tailored advice and representation to individuals facing drink driving allegations.
We understand that clients are often worried not only about losing their licence but also about the wider impact that a criminal conviction could have on their career, finances, family life, and future prospects.
Our experienced team will carefully assess the evidence, explain your options, and work with you to achieve the best possible outcome.
If you are facing a drink driving allegation, contact our specialist criminal defence solicitors for a confidential discussion about your case. Early legal advice can make a significant difference to the outcome and help you understand the full implications of any conviction.