France Drink-Driving Limit: BAC Rules and Penalties
France drink-driving limits for standard and probationary drivers, official breath thresholds, administrative measures and criminal penalties.
France BAC limits at a glance
France sets a 0.5 g/L blood-alcohol limit (0.05% BAC) for most drivers and 0.2 g/L (0.02%) for probationary licence holders. The corresponding breath limits are 0.25 mg/L and 0.10 mg/L.
| Driver group or jurisdiction | Blood | Breath | Urine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Most drivers | 0.5 g/L (0.05%) | 0.25 mg/L | Not used for this summary |
| Probationary and public transport drivers | 0.2 g/L (0.02%) | 0.10 mg/L | Not used for this summary |
Reviewed July 2026
Breath testing and legal classification
Code de la route
French road law distinguishes the lower-level contravention from the criminal offence beginning at 0.8 g/L in blood or 0.40 mg/L in breath. The official sources below contain the controlling text and current public guidance.
Breath testing
The standard breath threshold is 0.25 mg/L. For probationary licence holders and public transport drivers, it is 0.10 mg/L.
Administrative range
For most drivers, 0.5 to below 0.8 g/L in blood is handled as a contravention, with a six-point deduction and possible licence measures.
Administrative and criminal penalties
| Category | Key measures |
|---|---|
| Administrative / contravention measures | Fixed fine generally listed as €135 / Six points deducted from the driving licence / Possible licence suspension and vehicle immobilisation |
| Criminal offence from 0.8 g/L blood | Maximum fine listed by the current official service: €9,000 / Maximum prison term listed by the current official service: 3 years / Additional licence and vehicle penalties may be ordered |
Administrative / contravention measures
- Fixed fine generally listed as €135
- Six points deducted from the driving licence
- Possible licence suspension and vehicle immobilisation
Criminal offence from 0.8 g/L blood
- Maximum fine listed by the current official service: €9,000
- Maximum prison term listed by the current official service: 3 years
- Additional licence and vehicle penalties may be ordered
What drivers should know
Probationary drivers
The 0.2 g/L threshold applies during the probationary licence period. At this level, a single drink may be enough to exceed the limit.
Official values control
Penalties depend on the measured value and circumstances. Consult the current official pages rather than relying on an online estimate.
Official sources and editorial review
Reviewed by the BacCalculator.online Editorial Team. This summary is educational and is not legal advice.