Drinking Guide
Legal BAC
0.05%
Drinking Age
18+
New Drivers
Zero BAC
France is the world's most famous wine country. Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne — each region has its specialty.
Sparkling wine from the Champagne region. Only sparkling wine from this region can legally be called "Champagne."
Anise-flavored spirit mixed with water — turns cloudy. Essential in Provence and Marseille.
Wine is central to French life — it accompanies meals rather than being consumed for intoxication. The "apéro" (pre-dinner drink) is a beloved daily ritual. France has been shifting toward moderation; per-capita consumption has halved since the 1960s.
BAC 0.05-0.08%: fine €135, 6 license points deducted. BAC 0.08%+: criminal offense, fine up to €4,500, 2 years imprisonment, license revoked up to 3 years. New drivers (< 3 years): BAC limit 0.02%.
Wine with meals is normal and expected. Drinking without food is less common.
The "apéro" (pre-dinner drink, usually 6-8pm) is a daily social tradition.
French wine prices at supermarkets start from €3-5 for decent bottles.
New drivers have a stricter 0.02% BAC limit for the first 3 years.
Metro in Paris runs until about 1:15am (2:15am on weekends).
HowDrunk knows France's local drinks and legal limits. Get your personalized drink limit in seconds.