Alcohol Limit in Romania: Legal BAC for Drivers

Romania has some of the strictest drunk-driving laws in Europe. Unlike many EU countries where a small amount of alcohol is allowed, Romania applies a zero-tolerance rule for drivers. Even a small amount of alcohol detected during a breath test can lead to fines, license suspension, or even criminal charges depending on the level. This guide explains the legal alcohol limits in Romania, the penalties for exceeding them, and what happens if you refuse a breath or blood test. Legal Alcohol Limit for Drivers in Romania Romanian traffic law establishes a 0.00 mg/l alcohol limit in breath for drivers. This means that any measurable alcohol level is illegal while driving. The legal consequences depend on the exact alcohol concentration measured during police testing. Measurement Legal classification 0.00 mg/l breath Legal (no alcohol) Up to 0.40 mg/l breath Traffic offence Over 0.40 mg/l breath Criminal offence Over 0.80 g/l blood Criminal offence Police usually measure alcohol using a breathalyzer device, and if the result exceeds legal thresholds, drivers may be taken to a hospital for a blood test. Penalties for Driving Under the Influence Alcohol under 0.40 mg/l in breath If the breath test shows any alcohol but below 0.40 mg/l, the offence is considered administrative. Typical penalties include: fine between 1,305 and 2,900 lei license suspension for 90 days penalty points on the driver’s record Even though it is not a criminal offence, the consequences can still significantly affect your driving privileges. Alcohol over 0.40 mg/l in breath If the breath test result exceeds 0.40 mg/l, the offence becomes criminal under Romanian law. Possible penalties include: criminal charges prison sentence from 1 to 5 years or criminal fine driver’s license suspension or cancellation In this case, the police will normally request a blood alcohol test to confirm the level. Refusing Breath or Blood Tests Refusing to cooperate with alcohol testing is itself considered a criminal offence in Romania. Drivers who refuse the breath test or blood test may face: criminal investigation court proceedings possible imprisonment immediate suspension of the driver’s license Because of these consequences, refusing the test is often treated as seriously as driving with a high alcohol level. Why Romania Has a Zero-Tolerance Policy Romania introduced strict drunk-driving regulations to reduce serious road accidents. Authorities enforce these rules strictly, especially during night patrols, holidays, and weekend traffic checks. Even a single beer can result in a positive breath test, which may lead to fines and license suspension. For this reason, the safest option is simple: Do not drink alcohol at all if you plan to drive. Conclusion Romania enforces a zero-tolerance alcohol policy for drivers, making it one of the strictest countries in the European Union regarding drunk driving. Any detectable alcohol can result in penalties, while higher levels lead to criminal charges and possible imprisonment. If you plan to drive in Romania, the safest and legal choice is to avoid alcohol completely before getting behind the wheel. FAQ What is the legal alcohol limit in Romania? Romania has a 0.00 mg/l breath alcohol limit, meaning drivers must have no detectable alcohol. Is one beer allowed before driving in Romania? No. Even one beer can produce a positive breath test and lead to fines or license suspension. What happens if you refuse a breath test in Romania? Refusing the test is considered a criminal offence and may lead to prosecution and possible imprisonment.