>in the UK people don't get their driving licence taken away that often
In England and Wales, a drink-driving offence would attract a minimum of a 12 month disqualification unless there are very compelling mitigating factors. On a second offence (or a serious first offence), you would usually have to undergo a medical examination and re-take your driving test to get your license back.
https://www.sentencingcouncil.org.uk/offences/magistrates-co...
https://www.gov.uk/driving-disqualifications/disqualificatio...