A drunk and drive case in Hyderabad is one of the most common traffic cases filed by the police, especially during weekend checks. When the breath test shows alcohol above the legal limit, the police seize the vehicle, issue a challan and ask the driver to appear in court.

For many people, this is their first time dealing with the police or a court. Common questions come up quickly: How much is the fine? Is there a jail term? What happens to the driving licence? How can the vehicle be released?

This blog explains the drunk and drive rules, fines, court process and licence rules in Hyderabad in simple words, so you know exactly what to expect and what to do next.

Drunk and Drive Meaning: What Is the Legal Limit?

Drunk and drive means driving a vehicle after drinking alcohol above the legal limit. The limit is 30 mg of alcohol in 100 ml of blood. The traffic police check this with a breath analyser at the spot.

The same rule also applies if you drive after taking drugs.

Drunk and Drive Section in Motor Vehicles Act: Section 185

Drunk driving is an offence under Section 185 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. It is a criminal offence, so the case goes to court and a magistrate decides the punishment. It is not settled at the spot like a normal traffic challan.

Drunk and Drive Fine in Hyderabad

The judge decides the final punishment based on your case and reading. Your driving licence can also be suspended.

If drunk driving causes an accident in which someone is injured or killed, serious charges under the BNS (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita) can be added.

Drunk and Drive Licence Rules: Will My Licence Be Suspended?

Yes, it can be. After a drunk and drive case, your driving licence can be suspended for some time. During this period, you cannot drive. Driving with a suspended licence is a separate offence, so wait until the suspension ends.

Drunk and Drive Court Process in Hyderabad: Step by Step

Step 1: Breath test
The police test you at the spot and print the reading.

Step 2: Vehicle seized
The police take your vehicle and give you a receipt. Keep this receipt safe.

Step 3: Challan and court date
You get a challan with the date you must appear in court.

Step 4: Counselling
In Hyderabad, the traffic police often ask you to attend a short counselling session before the court date.

Step 5: Court hearing
You must attend court in person. The magistrate hears the case and decides the fine or punishment.

Step 6: Vehicle release
After the case is closed, you can get your vehicle back with the court order and the police receipt.

Documents Needed for a Drunk and Drive Case

Can You Fight a Drunk and Drive Case?

In some cases, yes. Your lawyer can check:

• The breath analyser: Was the machine working properly?

• The reading: Was it recorded correctly?

• The process: Did the police follow the rules while seizing your vehicle?

For most first-time cases, the aim is to close the case quickly, keep the punishment low and get your vehicle back fast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing the court date: The court can issue a warrant against you.

• Losing the seizure receipt: Getting your vehicle back becomes difficult.

• Arguing with the police: It only makes things worse.

• Driving with a suspended licence: This is a separate offence.

• Ignoring pending challans: Check and clear them on the Telangana e-challan website.

Why Choose RVK Law Associates?

RVK Law Associates handles drunk and drive cases, traffic cases and criminal matters across Hyderabad. Our team is led by Mr. R. Vamshi Krishna Rachuri, high court advocate at the High Court of Telangana. We:

• Guide you before court: We explain the full process in simple words.

• Check your papers: We review the breath test and seizure records.

• Appear with you in court: We represent you on the hearing date.

• Help release your vehicle: We handle the release process for you.

• Defend serious cases: For accident cases, we act as your criminal lawyer in Hyderabad.

Caught in a drunk and drive case? Call us today at +91 70932 47988 for clear legal advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the fine for drunk and drive in Hyderabad?
For a first offence, the fine is up to ₹10,000, or jail up to 6 months, or both. If you are caught again within 3 years, the fine goes up to ₹15,000, or jail up to 2 years, or both. The judge decides the final punishment.

2. Will my licence be suspended for drunk driving?
Yes, your driving licence can be suspended after a drunk and drive case. This means you cannot drive for some time. How long depends on your case and the court’s decision.

3. How do I get my vehicle back after a drunk and drive case?
First, attend your court hearing and finish the case. Then apply for release with the court order and the receipt the police gave you. Keep that receipt safe, because you cannot get your vehicle back without it.

4. Do I have to go to court myself?
Yes, you must go to court in person on the date given in your challan. If you miss it, the court can issue a warrant against you. A lawyer can guide you before the hearing and stand with you in court.