2025 Portugal BAC Laws - Blood Alcohol Content Legal Limits & DUI Penalties
Complete guide to Portugal DUI laws, BAC legal limits (0.05% standard, 0.02% new drivers), penalties, and blood alcohol content regulations under Portuguese traffic law.
Portugal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Legal Framework
Last Updated: 2025
Legal Framework Under Portuguese Traffic Code
Código da Estrada (Highway Code)
The Portuguese Highway Code establishes BAC limits: 0.05% for standard drivers and 0.02% for new drivers and professionals. Portugal enforces strict penalties with administrative and criminal sanctions.
Minor Violation (0.05% - 0.079%)
BAC between 0.05% and 0.079% constitutes a minor traffic violation with administrative penalties.
Serious Offense (0.08% - 0.119%)
BAC between 0.08% and 0.119% constitutes a serious offense with criminal penalties.
Aggravated Offense (≥0.12%)
BAC ≥0.12% constitutes an aggravated offense with severe criminal penalties and potential imprisonment.
DUI and Drunk Driving Penalties in Portugal
Minor Violation Penalties (BAC 0.05% - 0.079%)
- Fine: €250 - €1,250
- License suspension: 2-12 months
- Penalty points: 5 points
- Mandatory medical and psychological examination
Serious Offense Penalties (BAC 0.08% - 0.119%)
- Fine: €500 - €2,500
- Prison: Up to 1 year or fine
- License suspension: 6 months - 2 years
- Vehicle immobilization: 30 days
- Compulsory attendance at awareness course
Aggravated Offense Penalties (BAC ≥0.12%)
- Fine: €1,000 - €5,000
- Prison: Up to 2 years
- License suspension: 2-5 years
- Vehicle confiscation: Possible
- Ignition interlock device requirement
Important Information for Drivers in Portugal
Random Testing and Enforcement
Portuguese police conduct regular random BAC checks, especially during holidays and summer months. Refusing a breathalyzer test is an offense.
Point System
Portugal uses a penalty point system. Accumulating points can lead to license suspension and mandatory re-examination.
Tourist Driver Considerations
Foreign drivers, including tourists, are subject to the same BAC limits and penalties. Violations can affect travel and future visa applications.
Repeat Offender Legislation
Repeat offenders within 3 years face enhanced penalties including longer license suspensions and mandatory vehicle confiscation.
Medical Examination Requirements
DUI offenders must undergo medical and psychological examinations before license restoration, with costs borne by the offender.
Regional Implementation in Portugal
Lisbon Metropolitan Area
Enhanced enforcement in nightlife districts, coordination with municipal police
Porto
Increased controls during cultural events, river police coordination
Algarve
Tourist season intensified enforcement, multilingual awareness campaigns
Azores and Madeira
Island-specific regulations, coordination with maritime authorities