Blood alcohol contentFlanders
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Flanders. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.
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252. Blood alcohol content
Blood alcohol content (BAC), more precisely called blood alcohol concentration, indicates the amount of alcohol present in a person’s blood. It is commonly expressed as a percentage, grams per litre or parts per thousand (‰). Alcohol can impair judgement, reaction time, coordination and vision even before the legal BAC limit is reached. Legal limits vary between countries and may be lower for professional, novice or young drivers.
What is the legal blood alcohol limit for ordinary drivers in Belgium?
For most drivers, the legal threshold is 0.5‰ alcohol in the blood. A driver is punishable from this concentration, corresponding to 0.22 mg/l of alcohol in exhaled alveolar air.
Is the Belgian BAC limit lower for young or inexperienced drivers?
No. The standard 0.5‰ BAC limit also applies to young and inexperienced drivers in Belgium.
Does being below 0.5‰ mean you are safe to drive in Belgium?
No. Alcohol can affect driving before the legal limit is reached. The safest approach is not to drink alcohol when you plan to drive.

Traffic rules
Flanders