AlcoholUnited Kingdom
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of United Kingdom. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.
For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.
250. Alcohol
Alcohol affects judgement, reaction time, coordination, concentration and vision, making it dangerous to drive even before a person feels drunk. The legal alcohol limit varies between countries and may be lower for professional, novice or young drivers. The safest choice is not to drink alcohol before driving. Drivers who have consumed alcohol should use an alternative such as a sober designated driver, public transport or a taxi.
Wikimedia.org • West Midlands Police • CC BY-SA
Is the drink-driving limit the same throughout the United Kingdom?
No. The blood-alcohol limit is 80 mg per 100 ml in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, but 50 mg per 100 ml in Scotland. Impairment can make driving dangerous below either threshold.

Traffic rules
United Kingdom