Drinking and Driving

It is illegal in the Netherlands to drive a vehicle while under the influence of substances such as alcohol, medication or drugs that can impair driving ability.

The legal alcohol limit for driving in the Netherlands is 0.5 grams per liter of blood. This applies to driving a motor vehicle, as well cycling (but you are unlikely to get pulled over on your bike unless your behaviour poses a serious risk to others).

Regulations are even stricter for drivers who have had their license for less than five years. The blood alcohol limit for these drivers is 0.02%. This lower limit also applies to people under the age of 24 who drive mopeds, motorised bicycles and scooters.

If you fail a breathing test at a traffic stop, you must accompany the police to the police station, where you will be required to take a breathalyzer test. If you also fail that, you will receive a summons and a 24 hour driving ban. Breathalyzer tests are accepted as evidence in court. The penalty for drunk driving depends on the level of alcohol in the blood.

Some medical drugs can have the same effect as alcohol, so be sure to check the label on your medication if you are planning to drive.