Atemalkohol-VortestBrüssel
250. Atemalkohol-Vortest
Ein Atemalkohol-Vortest ist ein vorläufiger Test am Straßenrand, mit dem Alkohol in der Atemluft festgestellt und entschieden wird, ob eine weitere Messung erforderlich ist. Die Person bläst in ein tragbares Testgerät, das den Alkoholwert mit festgelegten Schwellenwerten vergleicht. Ein solcher Atemtest dient üblicherweise der Kontrolle und nicht als abschließende beweissichere Messung. Wird der maßgebliche Grenzwert erreicht, kann eine genauere Atemalkoholanalyse oder ein anderer rechtlich anerkannter Test folgen.
What is a breath test in Belgium?
A Belgian breath test is a preliminary alcohol test in which a person blows into an approved device that indicates the level of alcohol in the exhaled alveolar air relative to specified legal thresholds.
Does a Belgian breath test show the exact alcohol concentration?
Normally, no. The breath-test device indicates a result category based on legal thresholds rather than displaying the exact alcohol concentration used as the evidential result. The precise measurement is obtained by a breath analysis.
What results can an ordinary driver receive on a Belgian breath test?
For ordinary drivers, the device distinguishes between alcohol levels below 0.22 mg/l, from 0.22 mg/l to below 0.35 mg/l, and 0.35 mg/l or higher. These are represented by result codes such as S, A and P.
Are the breath-test thresholds different for professional drivers in Belgium?
Yes. For applicable professional drivers, the test also uses the lower threshold of 0.09 mg/l, producing an additional result category between 0.09 mg/l and 0.22 mg/l.
Who can be required to take a breath test in Belgium?
Police can require a breath test from drivers, people preparing to drive, persons accompanying learner drivers and people who may have caused or contributed to a traffic accident, including an accident victim where applicable.
What happens after a positive breath test in Belgium?
When the breath test reaches the applicable legal threshold, a breath analysis is normally performed to measure the exact alcohol concentration. Police may also proceed directly to a breath analysis without first carrying out a breath test.
Can a blood test follow a breath test in Belgium?
Yes. If the breath test reaches the applicable threshold but a breath analysis cannot be performed, a blood sample can be ordered under the conditions provided by law.
Can refusing a breath test lead to a driving prohibition in Belgium?
Yes. Refusing a legally required breath test can lead to penalties and an immediate temporary prohibition on driving. Since 1 July 2026, the standard prohibition in the applicable alcohol-control procedure is 12 hours.

Verkehrsregeln
Brüssel