2025 Spain BAC Laws - Blood Alcohol Content Legal Limits & DUI Penalties
Complete guide to Spain DUI laws, BAC legal limits (0.05% standard, 0.03% new drivers), penalties, and blood alcohol content regulations under Spanish traffic law.
Spain Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Legal Framework
Last Updated: 2025
Legal Framework Under Spanish Traffic Code
Código de Tráfico y Seguridad Vial (Traffic and Road Safety Code)
The Spanish Traffic Code establishes BAC limits: 0.05% for standard drivers and 0.03% for new drivers and professionals. Spain enforces strict penalties including immediate license suspension.
Standard BAC Limit (0.05% - 0.079%)
BAC between 0.05% and 0.079% constitutes a traffic violation, subject to fines and license point deductions.
Criminal BAC Offense (≥0.08%)
BAC ≥0.08% constitutes a criminal offense, punishable by criminal court with potential imprisonment.
Enhanced Penalties for New/Professional Drivers
New drivers and professionals face stricter 0.03% limit with immediate penalties and extended probationary periods.
DUI and Drunk Driving Penalties in Spain
Traffic Violation Penalties (BAC 0.05% - 0.079%)
- Fine: €500
- License points: -4 to -6 points
- License suspension: Possible 1-3 months
- Vehicle immobilization: In severe cases
Criminal Offense Penalties (BAC ≥0.08%)
- Fine: €500 - €1,000
- Prison: 3-6 months or community service
- License suspension: 1-4 years
- License points: -6 points
- Vehicle confiscation: Possible
Professional/New Driver Penalties (BAC ≥0.03%)
- Immediate license suspension
- Fine: €500
- Extended probationary period
- Mandatory alcohol education course
Important Information for Drivers in Spain
Random Testing and Enforcement
Spanish police conduct frequent random BAC checks, especially during holidays and weekends. Refusing a breathalyzer test is a serious offense.
Point System Impact
Spain uses a 12-point license system. DUI violations result in significant point deductions, with license suspension when reaching zero points.
International Driver Considerations
Foreign drivers are subject to the same BAC limits. Violations can affect international driving permits and result in immediate vehicle immobilization.
Insurance and Legal Consequences
DUI convictions significantly increase insurance premiums and may result in policy cancellation. Criminal convictions create permanent records.
Regional Variations
Some autonomous communities may have additional local regulations and enhanced enforcement in specific areas like tourist zones.
Regional Implementation in Spain
Catalonia
Enhanced enforcement during festivals, multilingual awareness campaigns
Andalusia
Increased controls in coastal tourist areas, coordination with local police
Madrid
Metropolitan area focus, enhanced nightlife zone controls
Valencia
Beach area controls, seasonal enforcement adjustments