Students warned a drink driving conviction can ruin J1 summer hopes

Eva Osborne

Students considering a J1 summer in the US next year are being reminded of the consequences of a drink or drug driving conviction through a social media campaign.

The Road Safety Authority (RSA), in partnership with USIT Travel and An Garda Síochána, is warning young people that a drink or drug driving conviction could prevent them from getting a visa.

This can be the case, not just for next summer, but possibly for life.

The campaign, which runs from September 22nd to October 23rd, highlights how one reckless choice can change the course of a student’s summer and future.

The video campaign cuts between footage of an Irish student left behind at home and his friends enjoying the adventure of a lifetime in the USA, reinforcing how one decision can take you down two very different roads.

Running across Meta, Snapchat and TikTok, the campaign coincides with the period when students begin researching, planning, and applying for J1 visas for summer 2026.

A J1 visa allows students to work in the US from May 15th to September 15th, with an additional 30 days to travel.

Chief executive of the RSA, Sam Waide, said: “The J1 is a rite of passage for so many students – a summer of work, travel, and new experiences.

"But a conviction for drink or drug driving can stop those dreams in their tracks. Beyond the legal consequences here in Ireland, students risk losing out on the opportunity of a lifetime abroad.

"Our message is simple: make safe choices on our roads and keep every opportunity open to you.”

Assistant Garda Commissioner Catharina Gunne added: “All too often we still see the devastating impact of drink and drug driving. At its worst it causes death, destroying the lives of loved ones, families and friends.

"It may also cause life changing injuries. A conviction for driving under the influence of an intoxicant may impact negatively on futures and opportunities.

"Younger adults and students need to realise not only the impact and consequences of fines and driving disqualifications here in Ireland.

“They need to be conscious and aware of the consequences of a conviction in particular the possibility of being barred from travelling to the United States on a J1 visa, or rules entering other countries. Gardaí are enforcing the law through mandatory checkpoints and random vehicle stops.

"Do not take the chance of being prosecuted by getting behind the wheel under the influence of any intoxicant, alcohol or drugs.”