Romania updates breathalyzer testing procedures for drivers

Under updated Romanian Road Code regulations, drivers stopped for alcohol testing have specific rights regarding breathalyzer results. If an initial test shows a concentration of up to 0.10 mg/l of pure alcohol in exhaled air, the driver may request a second test to account for potential residual alcohol in the mouth.

The second test must be conducted after a pause of at least 15 minutes and no more than 20 minutes from the first measurement. If the second test results in 0.00 mg/l, the driver may proceed without sanctions. However, if the second test confirms alcohol presence, even below 0.10 mg/l, it is treated as a contravention, and the lowest value of the two tests is recorded.

For results between 0.11 and 0.40 mg/l, drivers can request biological sampling at a medical facility to determine blood alcohol levels. Non-criminal alcohol consumption is sanctioned with a fourth-class fine, ranging from 1,946.25 lei to 4,325 lei, and a 90-day driving license suspension.