The most serious BAC-based drink driving charge in Queensland. A reading of 0.15 or above means mandatory interlock, a real risk of imprisonment, and no access to a Work Licence. Here is what you need to understand.
High range drink driving is charged when a driver’s BAC is recorded at 0.150 or higher. Under section 79(1) and (3) of the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 (TORUM), a driver at this level is conclusively presumed to be under the influence of liquor — no further evidence of impairment is required.
At three times the standard open-licence limit, this is the most serious BAC-based offence in Queensland. It carries mandatory alcohol interlock, a minimum 6-month licence disqualification, and a genuine risk of imprisonment even for first offenders.
A BAC of 0.15 or above triggers an automatic immediate suspension of your licence under section 79B of the TORUM Act. You cannot drive from the moment of charge. Courts are less likely to grant a section 79E application to lift this suspension pending finalisation given the seriousness of the charge.
High range offenders — where BAC is 0.15 or above — are not eligible for a Restricted Work Licence. The Work Licence is only available for BAC readings under 0.15.
One penalty unit is currently valued at $148.50 (as of July 2025). Courts assess repeat offences within a 5-year window measured from the date of the prior conviction.
| Offence | Max Fine | Max Imprisonment | Min Disqualification | Interlock |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Offence | 28 penalty units (~$4,158) | 9 months | 6 months | Mandatory |
| 2nd Offence (within 5 yrs) | 60 penalty units (~$8,910) | 18 months | 1–3 years | Mandatory |
| 3rd+ Offence (within 5 yrs) | Higher | Mandatory imprisonment for 3 x High Range in 5yrs | 2+ years | Mandatory |
Under section 79(1C) of the TORUM Act, repeat offenders with two or more prior drink driving convictions within 5 years face mandatory imprisonment for a high range offence. Under section 86(5), disqualification periods run cumulatively.
Imprisonment is possible for a first high range offence but not automatic. Queensland courts can impose a suspended sentence. The risk increases with:
Genuine remorse, strong character references, completing a traffic offender program before sentencing, and a well-prepared submission all meaningfully reduce the risk. Preparation matters — even at high range.
At high range, thorough preparation is especially important. The QLD Plea Program provides a complete court preparation system — character references, a personalised submission, and step-by-step guidance.