Blood alcohol limits in France
Standard Drivers
- Maximum BAC: 0.5 g/L
- Breath test: 0.25 mg/L
- This equals roughly 2 glasses of wine
New Drivers (Permis Probatoire)
- Maximum BAC: 0.2 g/L (effectively zero)
- Applies for first 3 years after passing test
- Breath test: 0.10 mg/L
- Any measurable alcohol = offense
Penalties for Drink Driving
0.5-0.8 g/L (First offense)
- Fine: €135
- Loss of 6 points
- Possible license suspension
Over 0.8 g/L
- Criminal offense
- Fine: Up to €4,500
- License suspension: Up to 3 years
- Possible prison: Up to 2 years
- Vehicle immobilization
Repeat Offenders
- Fines up to €9,000
- Prison up to 4 years
- Permanent license revocation possible
Random testing
- France conducts frequent random tests
- Especially common on weekend nights
- Holiday periods have increased checks
- Refusing test = same penalty as failing
Practical tips
- France requires breathalyzer in car (rarely enforced)
- "One drink" rule is NOT safe
- Designated driver culture is growing
- Taxis and ride-sharing widely available
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