NASCAR has placed AJ Allmendinger on probation until the end of the year after he was arrested on a charge of drink driving.

The Richard Petty Motorsports driver was arrested early on Thursday morning after having drinks with dinner and failed a roadside sobriety test.

NASCAR has now confirmed that the former open-wheel racer has been placed on probation after violating Section 12-1 of its rule book; actions detrimental to stock car racing.

The probation period will run until December 31.

“I honestly felt fine, but I obviously should have erred more on the side of caution, particularly given what I do for a living,” Allmendinger said. “It was a bad judgement call and I apologise for that.

“If anything good can come of this, then hopefully I can be an example of being more aware of drinking responsibly and even if you feel fine, take a cab or call a friend. Just don't risk it. I will do my best to make it right and use this to learn myself and hopefully educate others.”

RPM has yet to comment on the arrest.