Drunk driving in Bengaluru can cost you your driving licence

With zero tolerance for drunken driving, Karnataka’s transport department has suspended nearly 6,000 driving licences in 2025, sending out a clear warning to motorists across the state.

If you drink and drive in Karnataka, you could lose your driving licence immediately. The state transport department has intensified action against traffic violations in 2025, suspending 5,947 driving licences across Karnataka between April and November.

Bengaluru Urban division has reported the highest number of suspensions, accounting for 4,479 cases. Officials said the numbers are expected to rise further as enforcement was stepped up during the Christmas holidays and New Year’s Eve.

Drunken driving remains the single biggest reason for licence suspension. Out of the total cases, 4,735 licences were suspended for drinking and driving alone. Authorities said this strict approach is meant to protect not just motorists, but also pedestrians and other road users.

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Apart from confirmed suspensions, 1,512 cases involving rash driving, negligent riding and other traffic violations are still pending with Regional Transport Offices (RTOs). These cases were referred by the traffic police and are awaiting final action.

According to the transport department, the process begins once traffic police submit violation reports. These are forwarded to the concerned RTOs, which then initiate suspension proceedings. Depending on the case, a driving licence can be suspended for a period ranging from three to six months. In some cases, motorists are given a hearing, after which further decisions are taken based on replies and police reports.

To ensure strict enforcement, standing instructions have been issued to all 53 traffic police stations in Bengaluru city to intensify checks, especially during weekends and late hours. Officials said there is zero tolerance when it comes to drinking and driving, and licences are referred for suspension as soon as offenders are caught.

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The department maintains that such measures are essential to bring discipline on roads and reduce accidents caused by irresponsible driving.