Poland’s emerging wine scene is increasingly drawing international visitors. But before you raise a glass of local wine, it’s essential to understand the country’s strict alcohol laws. Poland has one of the lowest legal blood alcohol limits in Europe, and violations can lead to severe consequences—regardless of your nationality.
Legal Blood Alcohol Limit for Drivers in Poland
In Poland, the maximum permissible blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.2‰ (0.02%).
For comparison:
- Germany and France: 0.5‰
- UK (outside Scotland): 0.8‰
In practical terms, even one glass of wine may exceed the legal threshold (you can make sample calculations on your own using this calculator). Exceeding this can result in severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and imprisonment.
Zero Tolerance for Novice and Professional Drivers
Drivers with less than two years of experience and professional drivers are subject to a zero-tolerance policy (0.0‰).
Consequences of Driving Under the Influence in Poland
Polish law distinguishes between two states:
1. Driving After Alcohol Consumption
(0.2‰ – 0.5‰ BAC or 0.1–0.25 mg/l in exhaled air)
- Fine: from 2,500 PLN up to 30,000 PLN
- Driving ban: 6 months to 3 years
- 15 penalty points
- Arrest: up to 30 days
- Criminal record (if convicted)
Legal basis: Article 87 of the Code of Petty Offences.
2. Drunk Driving (Criminal Offense)
(over 0.5‰ BAC or over 0.25 mg/l in exhaled air)
- Imprisonment: up to 3 years
- Additional fine: 5,000–60,000 PLN (Victims’ Aid Fund)
- Driving ban: minimum 3 years, up to 15 years; in repeat cases – lifetime ban
- Vehicle confiscation: if BAC ≥ 1.5‰ or in case of accident
- 15 penalty points
Legal basis: Article 178a of the Penal Code
Foreign Drivers – What You Should Know
- Foreign citizens are subject to the same penalties as Polish drivers – no exceptions.
- Practical consequences may include:
- Immediate suspension of your driving license on Polish territory
- Obligation to pay a fine or serve a sentence before leaving the country
- If you avoid penalties, your case may be pursued in your home country (under the European Investigation Order)
Legal basis: Article 6 of the Penal Code
Additional Sanctions
Repeat offenses – result in higher fines (up to 10,000 PLN), longer driving bans, and imprisonment up to 5 years (up to 12 years if an accident occurs)
Loss of car insurance (autocasco) – insurance companies may refuse to cover damage if the driver was under the influence
Civil liability – you may be required to reimburse the insurer for compensation paid to victims
Conclusion
Poland offers a memorable wine tourism experience—but when it comes to drinking and driving, the rules are strict and the penalties are serious. With such a low legal BAC limit and strong law enforcement, it’s best to plan ahead: arrange for transportation, stay overnight, or simply avoid driving entirely if you’ve been drinking. It’s not only the legal choice—it’s the responsible one.
