Aaron James Boyle was spared a conviction after he pleaded guilty to mid-range drink-driving in Dubbo Local Court on Wednesday.

Police were patrolling Dubbo, when they spotted the 20-year-old driving a Toyota Hilux east along Alfred Street about 10pm on June 19.

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Boyle was pulled over for a random breath test, which later returned a reading of 0.119.

According to police Boyle appeared "moderately affected" by alcohol.

Boyle told officers he had been drinking at a friend's house in Dubbo since 7pm and had finished his last drink half an hour before he was pulled over.

He told police he had about two schooners of full-strength Carlton Dry beer and one can of Canadian Club and dry.

In court defence lawyer Thomas Eckersley said in addition to what he told police Boyle had consumed six beers around lunch time.

"He felt inclined to drive at 10pm, however he had overlooked the fact he had those additional beers at lunchtime," Mr Eckersley said.

Mr Eckersley said Boyle was a young man with a limited criminal history, and had since completed the traffic offenders program.

"Since completing that program he has an appreciation for the impacts poor choices can have, and understands how easily he could become a statistic," he said.

The court heard Boyle was a fourth year apprentice carpenter, and colleagues described him as a "bright, young man".

Mr Eckersley said his client lived out of town, and for the last month had relied on his mother and sister for transportation to and from work. He said this solution couldn't stay in place long term as it impacted their own commitments.

"He accepts it was a poor decision in the moment, and has been an eye opening experience for him," he said.

"He's unlikely to offend in future."

Magistrate Gary Wilson took into account his limited history and circumstances, but recognised Boyle had only been on the road for a few years.

"People don't appreciate how valuable a licence is until they lose it," he said.

"From what I read you obviously appreciate the significant of this type of offence."

Boyle was sentenced to an 18-month conditional release order.