Alcohol limits

Drink Driving Limits in Poland 2025

Quick answer

Poland has one of Europe's STRICTEST limits: 0.2 promille (0.02%) for ALL drivers. Above 0.5 promille is a criminal offense with mandatory prison sentence. Very severe enforcement.

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Table of contents

Blood alcohol limits in Poland

ALL Drivers

  • Maximum: 0.2 promille (0.02%)
  • One of Europe's strictest limits
  • Effectively near-zero tolerance
  • Applies to everyone equally

Important: Two Categories

0.2-0.5 promille (Wykroczenie - Offense)

  • Administrative offense
  • Fine: Up to 5,000 PLN
  • Points: 10 points
  • License suspension: 6 months - 3 years

Over 0.5 promille (Przestepstwo - Crime)

  • Criminal offense
  • Mandatory prison: Up to 2 years
  • License revocation: 3-15 years
  • Vehicle confiscation possible
  • Criminal record

Severe enforcement

Poland takes drink driving very seriously:

  • Random roadside checks common
  • Refusing test = same as criminal BAC
  • Mandatory prison for criminal level
  • Even small amounts can put you over 0.2

Practical Advice

  • Don't drink ANY alcohol if driving
  • Even one beer can exceed 0.2 promille
  • "Morning after" is a real risk
  • Medication containing alcohol can trigger positive

Consequences Beyond Legal

  • Job loss (especially drivers)
  • Insurance voided
  • Social stigma
  • Long-term driving ban

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