Singapore to slash legal alcohol limits for drivers by over half

SINGAPORE, July 8 — Drivers could soon face far stricter drink‑driving rules, including sharply reduced alcohol limits and possible jail time even for first‑time offenders, under legislative changes tabled in Parliament on July 7.

The Straits Times reported that Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs Sim Ann introduced the Road Traffic (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill, which proposes cutting the legal alcohol limit from 35mcg to 15mcg of alcohol per 100ml of breath, and from 80mg to 30mg per 100ml of blood — a reduction of more than half. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said the move aligns Singapore with jurisdictions such as Japan and South Korea, and reflects the reality that “no one accidentally drinks and drives”.

Jail for first‑time offenders with very high alcohol levels

MHA is also working with the Sentencing Advisory Panel on guidelines that would recommend jail terms for first‑time offenders who register extremely high blood alcohol levels. Currently, first‑time offenders without aggravating factors typically receive a fine and a two‑year driving ban, though the law already allows for up to 12 months’ jail. The ministry said jail in serious cases acknowledges the danger posed to other road users.

New breathalyser readings usable immediately for prosecution

If passed, the Bill will allow Traffic Police to use a new breathalyser whose readings can be used immediately as evidence. Officers currently conduct a preliminary test on the road, then transport suspects to a lock‑up for a second “evidential grade” test — a delay that often results in lower alcohol readings. Disputed cases may still rely on traditional checks such as blood tests.

New drug‑driving offence

The amendments introduce a standalone offence for drug driving, allowing prosecution if controlled drugs or intoxicating substances are found in a driver’s blood — regardless of quantity or whether impairment is observed. This removes the need to prove that the substance caused the driver to be unfit to control the vehicle, a requirement MHA says is often difficult due to varying effects of different drugs. Drivers will not be liable if they consumed legal prescription medication without knowing it could impair driving.

Fixing a loophole in blood‑sample collection

The Bill also revises procedures for collecting blood specimens in hospitals. Instead of requiring explicit doctor authorisation, the person overseeing the blood draw must simply be satisfied that it does not endanger the patient. The change follows a recent case where a suspect was acquitted because the doctor remained silent, leading the court to rule that authorisation had not been proven.