Germany sets 0.5‰ car and 1.6‰ bicycle alcohol limits with penalties

German traffic law imposes a zero‑tolerance limit for learner drivers and anyone under 21 years old: 0.0 ‰ blood alcohol. For all other drivers the limit is 0.5 ‰; exceeding it for the first time results in a fine of €528.50, a one‑month driving ban and two points in Flensburg. Higher concentrations (1.1 ‰ or more) are punished with income‑based fines, possible imprisonment and licence withdrawal.

For cyclists the legal limit for absolute unfitness is 1.6 ‰, while a blood‑alcohol level of 0.3 ‰ that causes dangerous behaviour (e.g., swerving, falling) is also punishable. Penalties can include a fine equivalent to a month's net salary or 30 daily rates, two points in Flensburg and a mandatory medical‑psychological assessment (MPU), which may affect the driver’s licence.

Both sets of rules aim to deter intoxicated road use and protect public safety.