BLOGS

EXPERTISE DETAIL

Driving under the influence of alcohol: what are the risks in Belgium?

Driving under the influence of alcohol is one of the most common cases in police court. The consequences are serious: driving ban, heavy fine, remedial tests and possibly an alcohol lock. Attorney Mohamed Asfour explains what you risk and how best to defend yourself.

The thresholds

In Belgium, the following thresholds apply. Below 0.22 mg/l AAG (0.5 g/l blood): no penalty. Between 0.22 and 0.35 mg/l: immediate collection. Above 0.35 mg/l (0.8 g/l of blood): criminal prosecution. Above 0.88 mg/l: immediate revocation of driver's license.

Risk of driving ban

Above 0.35 mg/l, you risk a driving ban of at least 8 days. With severe intoxication or recidivism, this rises to several years. The judge takes your personal situation and occupation into account.

Alcohol lock required

Above 1.2 mg/l AAG (2.8 g/l blood) or for repeat offenses, an alcohol lock is mandatory. This device measures your breath before each start of the vehicle. The cost is borne by the driver.

How can a traffic law attorney help?

An attorney reviews the breath analysis, the calibration of the device and the procedure. Even if the reading is correct, penalty reduction, suspension or a limited driving ban may be advocated, depending on your situation.

Contact

Call 048 499 22 72 Or send your PV to asfour@novexadvocaten.be.

Mr. Mohamed Asfour, lawyer at the Brussels Bar. May 2026.