Young driver alcohol limit: 0.2 g/L threshold and penalties in 2026

Since the decree of 24 June 2015, young drivers in their probationary period are subject to a specific alcohol threshold of 0.2 g/L of blood, equivalent to about half a glass of champagne for an average man. In 2026, this rule applies throughout the probationary licence period, that is 3 years (reduced to 2 years for accompanied driving). The aim is to protect a category overrepresented in fatal accident statistics, with nearly 17% of deaths for only 8% of the fleet.

The 0.2 g/L threshold: near zero alcohol

The 0.2 g/L blood threshold equals 0.10 mg/L of exhaled air. In practice, no alcohol consumption can be considered safe for a young driver. With breathalyser margin of error included, even a single beer or glass of wine triggers a violation. This rule applies to any B licence holder in probationary period, as well as supervised or accompanied driving learners.

Who is concerned

The probationary licence concerns new B licence holders (classic 3-year track, 2-year accompanied driving), but also A (motorcycle), C (heavy goods) and D (public transport) when it is the first licence. The rule also applies to drivers whose licence was invalidated and then successfully retaken.

Penalties for exceeding

A level between 0.2 and 0.5 g/L is a 4th-class contravention. The driver faces a 135 euros fixed fine, reduced to 90 euros if paid within 15 days, increased to 375 euros after 45 days. Point loss is 6 out of 12 (for a fully credited probationary licence), which mechanically triggers invalidation if the balance reaches zero.

Beyond 0.5 g/L

For a level above 0.5 g/L (equivalent to the standard threshold), the young driver falls under the same regulations as other users. Between 0.5 and 0.8 g/L: 4th-class contravention, 135 euros and 6 points. Above 0.8 g/L: misdemeanour, up to 2 years prison, 4,500 euros fine, 6 points and licence suspension.

Licence suspension

The prefect can order an administrative suspension of up to 6 months for an offence. The court can go up to 3 years. For a young driver, the stakes are double: suspension is a professional blow, but the loss of 6 points often leads to a full licence invalidation, forcing them to retake the code and driving exams after a minimum 6-month delay.

Extension of the probationary period

In case of an offence with point loss, the probationary period is extended. If the young driver loses 3 or more points in a single offence (case of 0.2 g/L exceedance with 6 points), they must take a mandatory awareness course within 4 months of the 48N notification. Without the course, the licence becomes invalid and the increased fine applies.

Awareness course cost

The point recovery course costs between 200 and 270 euros depending on the department and approved centre. It lasts 2 days (14 hours) and allows recovering up to 4 points. For a young driver, the mandatory post-offence course is billed on top of all other financial penalties. The list of approved centres is published by the prefecture.

EAD for young repeat offenders

Young repeat offenders may be required to install an EAD ignition interlock as alternative or complement to suspension. This measure, increasingly applied since 2024 according to Sécurité Routière statistics, allows continued driving on condition of blowing into the device before each start. The cost is fully borne by the offender.

Practical advice

To stay below the threshold, the only reliable rule is total abstinence before driving. A personal single-use breathalyser (1 to 2 euros) or electronic (30 to 100 euros) remains a useful investment. Smartphone alcohol estimation apps are not reliable and have no legal value. For nights out, plan a designated driver, ride-hailing or public transport. To check the point balance, Mes Points Permis offers free access to the information statement.