Drink-driving limits in Ireland (2026)

Last reviewed: 29 October 2026

In short: Ireland limits blood alcohol to 0.05% (50 mg per 100 ml) for ordinary drivers and 0.02% for learner, first-licence and professional drivers. Gardaí may require breath tests at authorised checkpoints. A conviction under section 4 can bring a fine of up to €5,000, 6 months in prison, or both.

RuleWhat applies
Blood alcohol limit for ordinary driversDriving after drinking alcohol0.05 % blood alcohol [1]
Lower limit for novice or young driversDriving after drinking alcohol20 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood (0.02%) for learner permit holders and for holders of a first driving licence during its first 2 years. The same limit applies to anyone driving without a licence for that vehicle category. [1]
Limit for professional or commercial driversDriving after drinking alcohol20 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood (0.02%) for drivers of vehicles in categories C, C1, D, D1, EB, EC, EC1, ED, ED1 and W (such as lorries and buses), and for licensed small public service vehicle (taxi) drivers while working. [1]
Random breath tests without suspicionDriving after drinking alcoholYes [1]
Maximum penaltiesDriving after drinking alcoholOn summary conviction of an offence under section 4: a fine of up to €5,000, imprisonment for up to 6 months, or both. [1]

Notes

  • The offence is exceeding the limit within 3 hours of driving. The same section sets equivalent urine and breath limits.
  • Other consequences, such as disqualification, are not covered by this entry.

Sources

  1. Law Reform Commission (Revised Acts): Road Traffic Act 2010 (Number 25 of 2010), revised, updated to 1 January 2026 (consulted 29 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.