Lock Out Drink-Driving

The RAC is supporting a campaign for the introduction of alcohol ignition interlocks, known as 'alcolocks', for high-risk and repeat drink-driving offenders.

This is not about imposing restrictions on responsible drivers. It is about using proven technology to prevent those convicted of drink-driving from putting themselves and others at risk again.

The problem

Drink-driving remains one of the biggest threats to road safety and is one of the so-called 'fatal four' behaviours that contribute to deaths and serious injuries on UK roads. Despite decades of enforcement and public awareness campaigns, too many people continue to lose their lives because of drivers getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. The latest Government data shows an estimated 220 people in Great Britain lost their lives in 2024 as a result of a driver or rider being over the legal alcohol limit.

The issue is made worse by repeat offending. RAC analysis of DVLA data found around 26,000 motorists have been caught drink-driving more than once in the last 11 years, with more than 2,500 motorists convicted three or more times. At the time the analysis was done, more than 220,000 drivers held alcohol-related convictions. Some individuals have amassed multiple convictions yet continue to reoffend.

The solution

An alcohol ignition interlock, or 'alcolock', is a breathalyser device fitted to a vehicle that prevents the engine from starting if alcohol above a set limit is detected on the driver's breath. The technology can also require additional breath tests at random intervals to help ensure the driver remains alcohol-free throughout the journey.

International evidence indicates alcolocks can significantly reduce reoffending, cutting repeat offences by as much as 70% while they are installed. Yet UK courts currently have no power to require convicted drink-drivers to use them.

Public support for alcolocks is high. RAC research found eight-in-10 drivers back the introduction of the device to tackle repeat drink-driving.

We believe alcolocks should form part of a mandatory programme for repeat and high-risk drink-driving offenders, helping to prevent future offences and protect other road users.

How it works

What is an alcolock?

An alcolock is a breathalyser connected to a vehicle's ignition system. Before starting the vehicle, the driver must provide a breath sample.

What happens if alcohol is detected?

If alcohol above the permitted level is detected, the vehicle will not start. This physically prevents an individual from driving after drinking.

Who would use it?

The campaign is focused on repeat and high-risk drink-driving offenders. It is not a proposal for all motorists. Courts would have the ability to require convicted offenders to use the technology for a specified period.

Why is it needed?

Data shows that current penalties, including fines and disqualifications, do not always stop persistent offenders from drink-driving again. Alcolocks provide a practical safeguard by preventing a vehicle from being driven when the driver has been drinking. International research also shows that between 50% and 75% of disqualified drink-drivers continue to drive illegally, undermining deterrence.

What we're asking for

Our call on the Government

We are calling on the UK Government to introduce a comprehensive, evidence-based programme that mandates the use of alcohol ignition interlocks for repeat and high-risk drink-driving offenders.

Why now?

The latest evidence shows drink-driving continues to claim hundreds of lives every year, while repeat offending remains a persistent problem. Proven technology already exists that can help prevent these offences from occurring.

A court-ordered alcolock programme would reduce repeat offending, improve road safety and help prevent alcohol-impaired drivers from getting back behind the wheel. It would complement existing penalties while providing a direct and effective way to protect all road users.