ACT Alcohol & Drugs Driving Rules (Must-Pass)
Alcohol and Drugs is a must-pass category in the ACT test — one wrong answer fails you. The key rule: learner and provisional drivers must have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.00, meaning no alcohol at all before driving.
Who must be at 0.00 BAC
- Learner, provisional (P-plate), probationary and restricted licence holders.
- Drivers of public passenger vehicles, dangerous-goods vehicles, and heavy vehicles over 15 tonnes.
- Anyone supervising a learner driver — drinking while supervising is also an offence.
- Other full-licence drivers have a limit of under 0.05.
Drugs: zero tolerance
Unlike alcohol, any trace of cannabis, methamphetamine or ecstasy while driving is an offence — there is no legal limit. Drugs can be detected hours or even days after use.
Prescription and cold medicines too
- Sedatives and antihistamines can impair driving — check the label or ask a doctor/pharmacist.
- Don't drive if medication makes you drowsy, dizzy or blurs your vision.
Facts about alcohol metabolism
- The body removes only about one standard drink per hour and this can't be sped up.
- Coffee, cold showers, sleep and exercise do not lower your BAC.
- After a heavy night you can still be over the limit the next morning.
FAQ
- Can a learner driver have a small drink before driving?
- No. The legal limit for L and P drivers is 0.00 — no alcoholic drink or food before driving.
- How many can I get wrong in this category?
- Zero. Alcohol and Drugs is must-pass; one wrong answer of the five fails the mock exam.
Related guides
Text adapted from the ACT Road Rules Handbook; diagrams © Australian Capital Territory, from the ACT Road Rules Handbook, used for study reference only. Passmate is an independent study tool, not an official or affiliated ACT Government product.