Drink Driving Limits in France 2025

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