From July, all drivers in France must carry a breathalyser

18th March 2012

From the start of July this year, all van drivers travelling to or through France will need to carry a breathalyser kit in their vehicles – even if it is just a day trip.  From November there will be an €11 fine for failure to comply.

Single-use breathalyser kits will satisfy the requirement.  They cost between £1 and £2 and will be available at ferry and tunnel terminals for crossings to France.  It is intended that people will be able to test themselves to check whether or not they are over the French limit.

Motoring safety experts recommend having at least two breathalysers at all times, so that if one is used you still have one to produce for the police if you are stopped.

The legal limit in France is 50mg per 100 ml of blood (the UK limit is 80mg).

Anyone driving in France is already required to carry a warning triangle and a fluorescent safety vest to use in an emergency.  In addition, UK vehicles must display a GB plate and have their headlights adjusted to the right.