Alcohol and Drugs Behind the Wheel in the Netherlands

Driving under the influence is treated seriously in the Netherlands. The rules are simple, and ignoring them ends careers, not just licences.

Blood alcohol limits

• 0.5‰ for drivers with more than 5 years' experience.
• 0.2‰ for novice drivers — the first 5 years after passing your exam.
• 0.2‰ for moped riders under 24 and for learner drivers.

What 0.5‰ means in practice

For most adults, two standard drinks within an hour will already put you near or above 0.5‰. Body weight, food and time matter. The only safe rule before driving is zero alcohol.

Penalties

• 0.5–0.8‰: ~€350 fine, possible educational programme (EMA).
• 0.8–1.3‰: higher fine + possible licence suspension.
• Above 1.3‰: licence suspension, court appearance, possible criminal record.
• Refusing a breath test: treated as the highest category.

Drugs and medication

All recreational drugs are prohibited behind the wheel — there are zero-tolerance limits for cannabis, cocaine, amphetamines and others. Prescription medication that causes drowsiness (yellow warning sticker) is also off-limits unless your doctor says otherwise.