A learner driver is off the roads for 30 months after pulling into a McDonald's drive-thru and just missing a menu board.
Connor Campbell was found to have to be nearly four times over the limit after his early morning trip on New Year's Day, magistrates in Nottingham heard.
The 18-year-old later told police that he had downed six pints of lager and four vodkas with lemonade while out with friends.
Daniel Pietryka, prosecuting, said officers went to the takeaway on Chilwell Retail Park at 5.30am.
"They were called to the drive-in where a vehicle had hit the kerb and almost hit a menu board," he said.
Tests showed 132 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, 97 over the legal limit.
Campbell said that he had been drinking from 5pm on New Year's Eve, Mr Pietryka added.
Campbell has been signed up by the Grenadier Guards and starts six weeks of basic training on Sunday, February 16.
Nicola Gray, mitigating, said: "He made a very stupid decision. As a provisional driver, he drove off to get some food from McDonald's.
"For the last two years, he has been trying to get into the British Army and is due to start. They are aware of this incident and say he can start with them.
"It could have been much more serious. He managed to get away with not hurting himself or someone else but knows he has put himself in a precarious position."
Campbell of Lathkilldale Crescent, Long Eaton admitted drink-driving, driving in breach of his learner's licence and his insurance.
He was given eight weeks custody, suspended for two years, and must pay £207 costs.
Presiding JP Jennifer Wood said he could have been locked up because of the high reading.
She added: "It is by the skin of your teeth because you are going to join the army.
"We think that is a good thing and will change your outlook on life. We want you to represent us in Britain."
