Drinking and Driving Fine in India 2025

Drinking and driving in India is no longer a small offense. What was once a ₹500 penalty is now a serious crime with fines starting at ₹10,000. With stricter laws and tougher enforcement in 2025, repeat offenders face higher fines, license suspension, and even jail.

Why the Law Got Stricter

Rising accident rates and reckless driving pushed lawmakers to amend the Motor Vehicles Act in 2019. Today, drunk driving isn’t just about fines it’s about accountability, safety, and saving lives.

State-Wise Drinking and Driving Fines

Across most Indian states, the fine is ₹10,000 for a first offense. But each state enforces it differently. Some states impose harsher penalties near schools, highways, or nightlife zones. Others take you straight to court.

If your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is over 30 mg per 100 ml of blood, you’re considered legally drunk. Random breath checks are common in cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi.

Drink and Drive Fine Under Motor Vehicles Act

The fine comes under Section 185 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 (amended in 2019). The penalties are:

• First offense: ₹10,000 fine, or imprisonment up to 6 months, or both
• Second offense (within 3 years): ₹15,000 fine, up to 2 years jail, and license suspension/disqualification

Traffic officers can also seize your license and vehicle. Many states now mandate awareness sessions for offenders, especially young drivers.

What Happens When You’re Caught

If you’re pulled over, police may ask you to take a breathalyzer test. If you fail:

• You’ll receive a challan (either digital or physical)
• Your license may be seized temporarily
• In cities like Mumbai or Bengaluru, you may also get a court hearing date

If involved in an accident, the consequences are worse you can be charged under IPC Section 304A (causing death by negligence), leading to severe jail terms.

How to Pay a Drinking and Driving Fine Online

Most challans are now digital. You can pay easily:

1. Visit echallan.parivahan.gov.in
2. Enter your vehicle number or challan number
3. Check details and click “Pay Now”
4. Select payment mode (UPI, card, net banking)
5. Download the receipt

Conclusion

Drinking and driving isn’t just about fines it’s about lives. In 2025, fines are higher, laws stricter, and consequences harsher. A single bad decision could cost you your license, your money, and even someone’s life.

The bottom line: Don’t drink and drive. Call a cab, hand over your keys, or stay the night. No party is worth a legal mess or a life lost on the road.

FAQs on Drinking and Driving Fine in India

Q. What is the fine for drinking and driving in India in 2025?
A. ₹10,000 for the first offense, ₹15,000 for repeat offenses in most states.

Q. Is jail mandatory for first-time offenders?
A. No, but you may face up to 6 months in jail depending on BAC and behavior.

Q. How do I pay a drinking and driving challan online?
A. Visit echallan.parivahan.gov.in, enter your vehicle/challan number, and pay online.

Q. Can the police seize my license on the spot?
A. Yes, traffic officers have the authority to seize your license and vehicle.

Q. What is the legal BAC limit in India?
A. 30 mg per 100 ml of blood.

Q. Can my car be towed if I’m caught drunk driving?
A. Yes, if needed, police can tow your car to the station.

Q. What happens if I ignore a drinking and driving challan?
A. Your penalties may increase, and you could be summoned to court.

Q. Do underage drivers face stricter rules?
A. Yes, they often face license disqualification and mandatory counseling sessions.

Q. Will insurance cover accidents caused by drunk driving?
A. No, most insurance companies do not cover damages if the driver was intoxicated.