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Breath testBelgium

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Traffic rules
Belgium

250. Breath test

A breath test is a preliminary roadside test used to detect alcohol in a person’s breath and determine whether further testing is required. The person blows into a portable testing device, which compares the alcohol level with predefined thresholds. A breath test is generally used for screening rather than providing the final evidential measurement. If the result reaches the applicable limit, a more precise breath analysis or another legally recognised test may follow.

What is a breath test in Belgium?

A Belgian breath test is a preliminary alcohol test in which a person blows into an approved device that indicates the level of alcohol in the exhaled alveolar air relative to specified legal thresholds.

Does a Belgian breath test show the exact alcohol concentration?

Normally, no. The breath-test device indicates a result category based on legal thresholds rather than displaying the exact alcohol concentration used as the evidential result. The precise measurement is obtained by a breath analysis.

What results can an ordinary driver receive on a Belgian breath test?

For ordinary drivers, the device distinguishes between alcohol levels below 0.22 mg/l, from 0.22 mg/l to below 0.35 mg/l, and 0.35 mg/l or higher. These are represented by result codes such as S, A and P.

Are the breath-test thresholds different for professional drivers in Belgium?

Yes. For applicable professional drivers, the test also uses the lower threshold of 0.09 mg/l, producing an additional result category between 0.09 mg/l and 0.22 mg/l.

Who can be required to take a breath test in Belgium?

Police can require a breath test from drivers, people preparing to drive, persons accompanying learner drivers and people who may have caused or contributed to a traffic accident, including an accident victim where applicable.

What happens after a positive breath test in Belgium?

When the breath test reaches the applicable legal threshold, a breath analysis is normally performed to measure the exact alcohol concentration. Police may also proceed directly to a breath analysis without first carrying out a breath test.

Can a blood test follow a breath test in Belgium?

Yes. If the breath test reaches the applicable threshold but a breath analysis cannot be performed, a blood sample can be ordered under the conditions provided by law.

Can refusing a breath test lead to a driving prohibition in Belgium?

Yes. Refusing a legally required breath test can lead to penalties and an immediate temporary prohibition on driving. Since 1 July 2026, the standard prohibition in the applicable alcohol-control procedure is 12 hours.

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