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France Drink Driving Laws

Understanding alcohol limits and penalties for drink driving in France

February 13, 2026·5 min read
France, known for its beautiful landscapes and rich culture, has strict laws regarding drink driving. As a driver in France, it's essential to understand the country's alcohol limit and the penalties for drink driving. The blood alcohol limit in France is 0.5g/L for experienced drivers, while new drivers have a lower limit of 0.2g/L. In this article, we'll delve into the specifics of France's drink driving laws, including the consequences of driving under the influence (DUI) and provide practical advice on how to stay safe on the roads.
1

Blood Alcohol Limits in France

In France, the blood alcohol limit is 0.5g/L for drivers who have held a license for more than three years. However, for new drivers who have held a license for less than three years, the limit is 0.2g/L. It's crucial to note that these limits are strictly enforced, and driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above the limit can result in severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment. For example, if you're a new driver and you're caught driving with a BAC of 0.3g/L, you could face a fine of up to €4,500 and a license suspension of up to three years.
2

Penalties for Drink Driving in France

The penalties for drink driving in France are severe and can have long-lasting consequences. If you're caught driving with a BAC above the limit, you can expect to face the following penalties: * Fines: Up to €4,500 for a first offense and up to €9,000 for a second offense * License suspension: Up to three years for a first offense and up to five years for a second offense * Imprisonment: Up to two years for a first offense and up to five years for a second offense It's also worth noting that if you're involved in an accident while driving under the influence, you could face additional penalties, including increased fines and longer license suspensions.
3

Practical Advice for Staying Safe

To avoid the risks associated with drink driving, it's essential to plan ahead and make responsible choices. Here are some tips for staying safe on the roads: * Always designate a sober driver * Use public transportation or ride-sharing services * Never drink and drive * Keep a breathalyzer in your vehicle * Be aware of the signs of impairment, including drowsiness, slurred speech, and difficulty walking By following these tips, you can reduce your risk of being involved in a drink driving accident and stay safe on the roads.
4

Unique Rules and Regulations in France

France has several unique rules and regulations that drivers should be aware of. For example, drivers are required to carry a reflective vest and a breathalyzer in their vehicle at all times. Additionally, France has a priority to the right rule, which means that drivers must give priority to vehicles coming from the right, unless otherwise indicated. It's also worth noting that yellow headlights are no longer required in France, but it's still recommended to use them in low-visibility conditions.
5

Emergency Procedures

In the event of an emergency, it's essential to know what to do. If you're involved in an accident or witness a drink driving incident, call the emergency number 112 immediately. You should also be prepared to provide information about the incident, including the location and the number of vehicles involved. Additionally, if you're stopped by the police, be sure to cooperate fully and provide any requested information, including your license and vehicle registration.

💡 Pro Tip: Plan Ahead

To avoid the risks associated with drink driving, it's essential to plan ahead. Before you go out, designate a sober driver or plan for alternative transportation. You can also use a ride-sharing service or public transportation to get home safely. By planning ahead, you can reduce your risk of being involved in a drink driving accident and stay safe on the roads.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the blood alcohol limit in France?▼
The blood alcohol limit in France is 0.5g/L for experienced drivers and 0.2g/L for new drivers.
What are the penalties for drink driving in France?▼
The penalties for drink driving in France include fines, license suspension, and imprisonment. The severity of the penalties depends on the circumstances of the offense and the driver's BAC.
Do I need to carry a breathalyzer in my vehicle?▼
Yes, in France, it's mandatory to carry a breathalyzer in your vehicle at all times. This is to help prevent drink driving and ensure that drivers are aware of their BAC.
What should I do if I'm stopped by the police?▼
If you're stopped by the police, cooperate fully and provide any requested information, including your license and vehicle registration. Be honest and respectful, and avoid arguing with the officer.
How can I stay safe on the roads in France?▼
To stay safe on the roads in France, always follow the rules of the road, wear your seatbelt, and avoid distractions while driving. Additionally, never drink and drive, and always plan ahead for alternative transportation.

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