Legal BAC Limits for Driving Worldwide
Alex Harmon · Updated June 2026 · Reviewed for accuracy
Updated June 2026 · 9 min read
If you're driving abroad — or just want to know exactly where you stand legally after a drink — knowing the local blood alcohol limit is essential. The legal BAC limit for driving varies dramatically by country, from 0.08% in the US and UK to absolute zero in Japan, Czech Republic, and Hungary. Getting it wrong isn't just a fine; in most countries it's a criminal offense.
This guide covers the legal BAC limit for every major country, plus key differences for new drivers, commercial drivers, and repeat offenders.
Legal BAC Limits by Country (2026)
| Country | Standard BAC limit | New/young drivers |
|---|---|---|
| USA | 0.08% (0.05% in Utah) | 0.00–0.02% (under 21) |
| UK — England & Wales | 0.08% | 0.08% (same) |
| UK — Scotland | 0.05% | 0.05% |
| Canada | 0.08% (criminal); 0.05% (roadside warning) | 0.00% (most provinces) |
| Australia | 0.05% | 0.00% (learner/P-plate) |
| Germany | 0.05% (0.03% if impairment shown) | 0.00% (under 21) |
| France | 0.05% | 0.02% (first 3 years) |
| Spain | 0.05% | 0.03% (first 2 years) |
| Italy | 0.05% | 0.00% (under 21 or first 3 years) |
| Netherlands | 0.05% | 0.02% (new drivers) |
| Sweden | 0.02% | 0.02% |
| Norway | 0.02% | 0.02% |
| Japan | 0.03% (but 0.00% in practice) | 0.00% |
| Czech Republic | 0.00% | 0.00% |
| Hungary | 0.00% | 0.00% |
| Brazil | 0.05% (criminal at 0.06%) | 0.00% |
| UAE | 0.00% (zero tolerance) | 0.00% |
| South Africa | 0.05% | 0.02% |
Laws change. Always verify with official local transport authorities before driving in an unfamiliar country.
The USA: 0.08% — But With Important Exceptions
The federal standard in the US is 0.08% BAC for drivers aged 21 and over. However, Utah lowered its limit to 0.05% in 2018, making it the strictest in the country. Several other states have considered following suit.
Key exceptions that apply in all US states:
- Under 21: Zero tolerance — any BAC above 0.00-0.02% (varies by state) results in license suspension
- Commercial drivers (CDL): 0.04% federal limit
- School bus drivers: 0.04% or stricter depending on state
- Repeat DUI offenders: Many states require ignition interlock devices set at 0.02%
The UK: Two Different Laws
England, Wales, and Northern Ireland share the 0.08% limit (80mg per 100ml of blood). Scotland lowered its limit to 0.05% (50mg/100ml) in 2014, aligning with most of Europe. This catches a surprising number of visitors and cross-border drivers off guard.
In practical terms, crossing into Scotland with 2 drinks in your system could mean the difference between legal and illegal — even in the same car, on the same road.
Europe: Mostly 0.05%, Some Much Stricter
Most EU countries enforce a 0.05% BAC limit, which is roughly equivalent to 1-2 drinks for most adults. But countries like Sweden (0.02%), Norway (0.02%), and several Eastern European nations enforce near-zero limits that make any alcohol before driving effectively illegal.
Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, and Romania all enforce absolute zero — even one drink can result in criminal charges and immediate license confiscation.
Zero Tolerance Countries
These countries enforce a 0.00% BAC limit:
- Czech Republic
- Hungary
- Slovakia
- Romania
- United Arab Emirates
- Saudi Arabia
- Pakistan
- Parts of India (state-dependent)
In some of these countries, possession of alcohol is illegal entirely, making DUI enforcement even stricter.
Know Your BAC Before You Drive
Given how much limits vary, the safest approach when traveling internationally is to either not drink before driving or use our BAC calculator to estimate your level and verify it against local laws. And if you're in a zero-tolerance country, the answer is simple: don't drink at all before getting behind the wheel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal BAC limit in the US?
0.08% for drivers 21 and over in most states. Utah is stricter at 0.05%. Under-21 drivers face near-zero limits (0.00-0.02% depending on state). Commercial drivers must stay under 0.04%.
What is the legal BAC limit in the UK?
England, Wales, and Northern Ireland: 0.08% (80mg/100ml). Scotland: 0.05% (50mg/100ml). This difference is significant — a reading that's legal south of the border can be a criminal offense in Scotland.
Which countries have a 0.00% BAC limit?
Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, Romania, UAE, and several others enforce absolute zero tolerance. Japan's legal limit is technically 0.03% but enforcement is effectively at zero, with extremely severe penalties.
What is the legal BAC limit in Australia?
0.05% for full license holders across all states and territories. Learner drivers and P-plate (probationary) drivers must maintain 0.00%. Random breath testing is common and frequent on Australian roads.
Check your BAC before you drive. Use our free BAC calculator to estimate your current blood alcohol level and know exactly where you stand relative to local laws.