Am I allowed to drive after drinking alcohol?
Only within strict limits. For drivers over 21 outside probation the limit is 0.5 per mille: penalty-free up to it, from 0.5 an administrative offence (first time €500, 2 points, 1 month ban). Between 0.3 and 1.09 per mille you are "relatively unfit" — with impairment signs or a crash it is a crime. From 1.1 per mille you are absolutely unfit: a crime with withdrawal of your licence. In probation and under 21 the limit is 0.0.
📋 The rules
- Over 21 / outside probation: 0.5 per mille limit
- From 0.5: administrative offence — first time €500, 2 points, 1 month ban
- 0.3–1.09 with impairment signs or a crash: a crime (relative unfitness)
- From 1.1: absolute unfitness — a crime, licence withdrawal
- Probation and under 21: 0.0
- From 1.6 a medical-psychological assessment (MPU) is usually ordered
🔓 Exceptions
- Under 0.5 (over 21, no probation) without impairment signs: no fine
- Residual alcohol the morning after is often underestimated — it counts in full
- For e-scooters the same limits apply as for cars
⚠️ Penalties & fines
0.5 first offence: €500, 2 points, 1 month ban; repeats €1,000/€1,500. From 1.1 or with a crash/impairment: a crime with fine or prison, licence withdrawal and a bar period, from 1.6 usually an MPU. In probation/under 21: €250, 1 point, probation extended to 4 years and a training seminar.
📎 Official sources
- ADAC · alcohol limit for driving →
- § 316 criminal code · drink-driving →
- Bußgeldkatalog · alcohol & drugs at the wheel →
❓ Frequently asked
How much alcohol can I have when driving?
Over 21 and outside probation, up to 0.5 per mille — above that a fine. In probation and under 21 it is 0.0. From 0.3 you can be liable if you drive conspicuously or crash.
What does 0.5 per mille cost?
First offence €500, two points and a one-month ban. Second time €1,000, third €1,500 — each with a longer ban.
When is drink-driving a crime?
Always from 1.1 per mille (absolute unfitness). Already from 0.3 if impairment signs occur or you cause a crash. Then a fine or prison and licence withdrawal follow.
What limit applies in probation?
0.0 — as for everyone under 21. Even small amounts mean €250, a point, extension of probation to four years and a paid training seminar.
What about residual alcohol the next morning?
It counts in full. Alcohol is broken down slowly (about 0.1–0.15 per mille per hour). After a heavy night you may still be well over the limit in the morning — and that is punishable too.
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