Study topic
Drink driving limits in Ireland
Ireland has different blood alcohol limits depending on the type of licence you hold. These distinctions come up regularly in the theory test, so knowing the exact numbers matters.
Key facts to remember
- ◆ Standard licence holders: 50 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood.
- ◆ Learner permit holders and novice drivers: 20 mg per 100 ml of blood.
- ◆ Professional drivers (bus, truck): 20 mg per 100 ml of blood.
- ◆ Exceeding the limit can result in penalty points, fines, disqualification, or prosecution.
- ◆ The safest approach before driving is to not drink alcohol at all.
A "novice driver" is someone who has held a full licence for less than two years. The lower 20 mg limit applies to them as well as to learner permit holders.