The three bands
| Measurement | Category and fine | Measure |
|---|---|---|
| 0.50 to 0.80 g/l blood or 0.25 to 0.40 mg/l breath | E3-B, 350 euros | Licence and vehicle documents removed for 30 days |
| Over 0.80 to 1.10 g/l blood or over 0.40 to 0.60 mg/l breath | E4, 700 euros | Licence removal for 90 days |
| Over 1.10 g/l blood or over 0.60 mg/l breath | E4, 1,200 euros | Licence and vehicle documents removed for 180 days and imprisonment of at least 2 months |
In all three bands, the vehicle must be immobilised and kept under article 50.
Blood alcohol calculator
Add drinks and basic body details for a simple estimate of the theoretical maximum blood alcohol concentration.
The result does not show whether you are sober or safe to drive.
This is only a theoretical estimate based on the Widmark distribution model. It is not a measurement, medical test or legal evidence. It may differ substantially from the actual concentration. We accept absolutely no liability for any use or decision based on the result. If you have consumed alcohol, do not drive and do not compare the result with the legal limit as an indication of safety.
How is it calculated?
The estimate uses the simple Widmark distribution model. It does not calculate blood volume because ethanol distributes through body water, not only blood.
- It converts each drink to grams of pure ethanol using a density of 0.789 g/ml.
- It divides the total by body weight and the average distribution factor r, 0.68 or 0.55.
- It assumes complete absorption and no alcohol elimination, so it is shown as a theoretical maximum.
Food, drinking time, body composition, health, medicines and individual biology can substantially alter the actual value. The factors are population averages and do not describe every body precisely.
Can it tell me whether I can drive?
No. Only an appropriate breath or blood measurement can determine concentration for testing. No calculator result is permission, advice or evidence that driving is safe.
Refusal to be tested
Refusing an alcohol test creates a presumption of a blood concentration above 1.10 g/l. Refusing a test for substances or medicines creates the corresponding presumption of influence.
Medicines and toxic substances
The prohibition also covers medicines whose instructions say they may affect driving ability. Paragraph 8 provides criminal and court-imposed sanctions for driving under the influence of substances or such medicines.