Drinking and driving - consequences, driver's license, MPU

Drinking and driving is one of the most common causes of road accidents and is punished accordingly. But what limits apply and what are the consequences? Here is the most important information:

1. relevant limit values for drinking and driving

Blood alcohol content (BAC)	Consequences
0,3 ‰	Even at this level, a criminal offense may have been committed if there is erratic driving (e.g., swerving) or an accident (§ 316 of the German Criminal Code (StGB)).
0,5 ‰	Even at this level, a criminal offense may have been committed if there is erratic driving (e.g., swerving) or an accident (§ 316 of the German Criminal Code (StGB)).
1,1 ‰	Driving While Completely Unfit: A Criminal Offense (§ 316 of the German Criminal Code (StGB)). Suspension of driver's license, fine, points, order to undergo a medical-psychological assessment (Section 69 of the German Criminal Code (StGB)).
1,6 ‰	Threshold for ordering an MPU, regardless of other abnormalities (§ 13 FeV).

2 What are the consequences of violations?

Fines and driving bans: Even 0.5 ‰ can result in severe fines, points and a driving ban.

Driving license revocationFrom 1.1 ‰ (absolute inability to drive) the driving license is withdrawn, often for several months.

Consequences under criminal law: Endangering others (§ 315c StGB) or from 1.1 ‰ is punishable by a fine or even imprisonment.

MPU order: From 1.6 ‰, a medical-psychological examination is required to check suitability for participation in road traffic.

3 When is an MPU ordered?

The Medical-psychological examination (MPU) is ordered in the following cases:

Blood alcohol level from 1,6 ‰regardless of abnormalities.
Repeated violations of the blood alcohol limit (e.g. 0.5 ‰).
Alcohol-related offenses or accidents.

The MPU checks whether you have overcome alcohol abuse and can safely participate in road traffic in the future.

4. what should you do after a violation?

No statements without legal advice. Silence protects you from making hasty mistakes.

Contact us Please contact me immediately to clarify the next steps.

Have it checked whether it is possible to take action against the sanctions, e.g. in the case of Procedural errors.

5. conclusion

Drinking and driving has serious consequences for your driver's license and your personal future. A professional defence can help minimize penalties or get your driver's license back more quickly.

Waldemar Dill

Waldemar Dill is an attorney and the owner of the law firm Dill. He has been admitted to the Koblenz Bar Association since 2023 and specializes in criminal law. He advises and represents clients with professional expertise, strategic foresight, and personal dedication. He is committed to providing clear, transparent advice and consistently advocating for his clients’ interests.