Joseph Clarke, 45, of Terang, pleaded guilty in the Warrnambool Magistrates Court on Thursday to refusing a breath test, driving while disqualified and using an unregistered vehicle.

Police prosecutor leading senior constable Nathan Brown said police noticed a car at 8.55pm on May 31 last year on Estcourt Street in Terang.

Clarke drove the car with no headlights on and did not indicate when he turned onto Baynes Street and then onto Thomson Street. 

The court heard when pulled over by police Clarke refused to give his name and address numerous times.

He told police he didn't have a licence and refused a blood alcohol test. The court heard Clarke smelt of alcohol and was slurring his words. When asked why he'd driven whilst disqualified he said he needed to get his dog home.

Clarke's defence counsel Ian Pugh said his client had significant issues with alcohol which he was trying to overcome. He said his client panicked and was sorry he wasn't cooperative with police.

Initially Magistrate Cynthia Toose said Clarke had until the end of the year to make a real effort and she adjourned the matter with the orders that Clarke demonstrate his commitment to rehabilitation via a community corrections order. She said his driving put the whole community at risk and it was his last opportunity before he faced jail.

But Ms Toose cancelled the order when the matter was recalled and she became aware that Clarke was facing a new drink driving charge. She adjourned all matters and Clarke will appear in court next month.