Analyse de l’air expiréBelgique
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251. Analyse de l’air expiré
Une analyse de l’air expiré est une mesure précise de la concentration d’alcool dans l’air expiré d’une personne. Contrairement à un éthylotest préliminaire utilisé surtout pour le dépistage, elle est réalisée avec un appareil probant homologué et produit un résultat utilisable pour l’application de la loi. Le résultat est souvent exprimé en milligrammes d’alcool par litre d’air expiré, bien que les procédures et seuils varient selon les pays.
What is a breath analysis in Belgium?
A Belgian breath analysis is performed with an approved device that measures the exact concentration of alcohol in the exhaled alveolar air.
When is a breath analysis performed in Belgium?
For ordinary drivers, a breath analysis is performed when the preliminary breath test indicates at least 0.22 mg/l. For drivers subject to the stricter professional limit, the threshold is 0.09 mg/l. Police may also require a breath analysis without first performing a breath test.
What alcohol concentration is punishable for ordinary drivers in Belgium?
An ordinary driver is punishable when the breath analysis measures at least 0.22 mg/l of alcohol in exhaled alveolar air, corresponding to approximately 0.5‰ in the blood.
Can you request a second breath analysis in Belgium?
Yes. A person who has undergone a breath analysis may request an immediate second analysis. If the difference between the results exceeds the permitted accuracy margin, a third analysis is carried out.
Which breath-analysis result is used if two Belgian measurements differ?
If the difference remains within the permitted accuracy limits, the lowest valid result is used. If the difference exceeds those limits, the breath analysis is treated as not having been performed.
Can you request a blood test after a Belgian breath analysis?
Yes. When the valid breath-analysis result is at least 0.35 mg/l, the person can request a blood test as a counter-analysis under the applicable procedure.
What happens after a positive breath analysis in Belgium?
A positive result can lead to a temporary driving prohibition and financial or judicial penalties. Since 1 July 2026, a qualifying positive alcohol result normally triggers an immediate driving prohibition of 12 hours before a new test is required.
Can you refuse a breath analysis in Belgium?
Refusing a legally required breath analysis is itself punishable and can also result in an immediate temporary driving prohibition.

Règles de circulation
Belgique