2025 Italy BAC Laws - Blood Alcohol Content Legal Limits & DUI Penalties
Complete guide to Italy DUI laws, BAC legal limits (0.05% standard, 0.00% new drivers), penalties, and blood alcohol content regulations under Italian traffic law.
Italy Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Legal Framework
Last Updated: 2025
Legal Framework Under Italian Traffic Code
Codice della Strada (Highway Code)
Article 186 of the Italian Highway Code establishes BAC limits: 0.05% for standard drivers over 21, and 0.00% for drivers under 21, new drivers, and professionals.
Standard BAC Limit (0.05% - 0.079%)
BAC between 0.05% and 0.079% results in administrative fines and license point deductions.
High BAC Offense (0.08% - 0.15%)
BAC between 0.08% and 0.15% results in criminal charges with license suspension.
Severe BAC Offense (>0.15%)
BAC above 0.15% results in criminal charges with potential imprisonment and vehicle confiscation.
DUI and Drunk Driving Penalties in Italy
Low BAC Penalties (0.05% - 0.079%)
- Fine: €532 - €2,127
- License suspension: 3-6 months
- License points: -10 points
Medium BAC Penalties (0.08% - 0.15%)
- Fine: €800 - €3,200
- License suspension: 6 months - 1 year
- Arrest: Up to 6 months
- Vehicle confiscation: Possible
High BAC Penalties (>0.15%)
- Fine: €1,500 - €6,000
- License suspension: 1-2 years
- Arrest: 6 months - 1 year
- Vehicle confiscation: Mandatory
Important Information for Drivers in Italy
Zero Tolerance Policy
Italy enforces zero tolerance for drivers under 21 and new drivers (first 3 years). Any detectable alcohol results in penalties.
Point System Impact
Italy uses a 20-point license system. DUI violations result in 10-point deductions, with license suspension at zero points.
Vehicle Confiscation
Vehicles may be confiscated for BAC levels above 0.15% or repeat offenses, with possible permanent forfeiture.
Regional Implementation in Italy
Northern Italy
Stricter enforcement in tourist areas, enhanced controls during ski season
Southern Italy
Focus on weekend and holiday enforcement, coastal area controls