DUI Lawyers Sydney

Is "DUI" a real charge in NSW?

Not usually. "DUI" (Driving Under the Influence) is the term used in the United States and is often used as a general search term by people who don't yet know the correct NSW terminology. If you have been charged after providing a breath or blood alcohol reading, your actual charge is almost certainly PCA — Prescribed Concentration of Alcohol — under section 110 of the Road Transport Act 2013 (NSW).

NSW does have a separate, narrower offence technically titled "driving under the influence" under section 112 of the same Act, but it is only used in rare cases where police could not obtain a scientific breath or blood reading and instead rely on observed signs of severe intoxication. For almost everyone searching for "DUI lawyers," your matter will be a PCA charge, and the information below tells you which category applies.

This page gives you the quick answer. For the complete breakdown of penalties, court process, and defences, see our full Drink Driving Lawyers Sydney page.

PCA Categories Explained

Your penalty depends on which PCA category your reading falls into:

Penalties at a Glance

• Novice, Special or Low range: Fine up to $2,200 (first offence) and disqualification starting around 3 months. No mandatory interlock.
• Mid range: Fine up to $2,200, up to 9 months imprisonment possible, and a mandatory alcohol interlock period of 12 months upon conviction.
• High range: Fine up to $3,300, up to 18 months imprisonment, and a mandatory alcohol interlock period of 24 months upon conviction.

These figures are first-offence maximums and increase significantly for repeat offenders. A conviction can also result in a criminal record and may affect employment, travel, professional licensing, and visa applications.

How We Can Help

At NS Criminal Lawyers and Associates, we handle PCA and drink driving matters of every category, from Novice range through to High range and repeat offences. We will review your breath analysis certificate, check for procedural errors, and prepare compelling mitigation to protect your licence and your record.