Fresh analysis of DVLA data by the RAC has revealed the scale of repeat drink-driving across the UK, with more than 2,500 motorists caught offending on at least three separate occasions over the past 11 years.
The figures highlight a pattern of persistent reoffending. One driver amassed 10 separate DR10 convictions — the endorsement applied to motorists found driving or attempting to drive over the legal alcohol limit. Another accumulated eight such convictions, while 13 drivers recorded six drink-drive offences.
In total, 2,171 motorists received three DR10 endorsements, alongside 25 drivers who accrued three DR20 endorsements, which apply to those deemed unfit to drive through alcohol.
Overall, 220,638 drivers currently hold drink-driving endorsements on their licences — 217,757 DR10 cases and 2,881 DR20 cases. Over the past 11 years, 26,819 licence holders have been convicted more than once.
‘Licence Disqualification Alone Does Little’
RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis said the statistics make it “painfully clear” that licence disqualification alone does “little to prevent” some drink-drivers from reoffending.
“The solution for repeat and high-risk drink-drivers who are highly likely to get behind the wheel again after drinking is something that physically prevents them doing so.
“Alcohol interlocks or ‘alcolocks’ do just that as they are breathalyser devices fitted to a vehicle’s ignition system that prevent it being started if the driver has been drinking alcohol.”
RAC research suggests strong public backing for such measures, with 82% of motorists supporting the introduction of alcohol interlocks to prevent repeat offending.
“When one instance can kill, 10 occurrences on the same licence is a truly grim ‘groundhog day’ that must be prevented,” Dennis added. “Surely, as a society, we can’t afford not to be using alcolocks.”
Campaigners Urge Mandatory Scheme
The Lock Out Drink-Driving Campaign, launched in December 2025, is calling for a mandatory alcohol interlock programme for high-risk and repeat offenders.
A campaign spokesperson said: “These figures should be a wake-up call for road safety in Great Britain.
“To see more than 18,000 people convicted of multiple drink-driving offences – some with as many as six convictions – is completely unacceptable. It is clear that current measures are failing to break the cycle of reoffending.”
Government Yet To Mandate Interlocks
The Government’s new road safety strategy, published earlier this year, proposes mandating 18 new vehicle safety technologies for manufacturers seeking Great Britain type approval.
The European Union’s New Vehicle General Safety Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2019/2144) introduced updated minimum performance standards for vehicles sold within the EU and Northern Ireland, including advanced driver assistance systems from July 2024.
While the UK contributed to the development of the regulation, alcohol interlocks are not currently mandated in Great Britain. The Government has indicated that further work is required before deciding whether to introduce compulsory interlocks.
Dennis welcomed the fact that alcolocks are under consideration, but said: “This data shows decisive action is needed now. A mandatory alcolock programme for high-risk and repeat offenders would prevent further avoidable tragedies on our roads.”
In several other countries — including Finland, Belgium, New Zealand, Australia, Canada and parts of the United States — drink-drivers may be allowed back on the road after a short ban provided an alcohol interlock is fitted to their vehicle for a set period, often around a year.
The Government’s strategy aims to reduce road deaths and serious injuries by 65% by 2035.
About Carl Millar
Carl Millar is a highly respected and experienced drink driving solicitor who is the principal of Millars Solicitors.
Carl has been a specialist in road traffic law for many years and represents clients from all walks of life and all over the Country. He is well known for the dogged defending of his clients and robust cross examination of police officers and exert witnesses.
With a wealth of expertise in motoring law Carl is well placed to provide advice over the phone and deal with all road traffic matters in a calm and professional way.
Getting in contact with Carl and Millars Solicitors is really easy. You can call him FREE on 0800 999 5535, or click here to send a confidential message.
