Spain’s New ‘One-Beer’ Driving Law: Stricter Alcohol Limits for Tourists Could Lead to £875 Fine

Published on
October 28, 2025

Spain is about to tighten its drink-driving regulations, and tourists are on notice. The Spanish authorities have proposed a new law aiming to significantly reduce alcohol-related accidents and fatalities. The new rules would lower the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit to just 0.2g per liter, meaning even the smallest amount of alcohol consumed before getting behind the wheel could land you in trouble. With the law expected to be enforced by the end of 2025, tourists visiting Spain may find themselves facing hefty fines for even a small glass of wine or beer if they decide to drive.

The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT), Spain’s traffic authority, has been working towards this stricter regulation to curb accidents, particularly in tourist-heavy regions like the Balearic Islands, where alcohol consumption and driving are a frequent combination. The proposed law has sparked mixed reactions but has gained considerable attention due to its potential impact on the influx of tourists, who are often unfamiliar with the country’s strict road safety rules. The fines for violating these new regulations can range from €500 to €1,000 (£435 to £875), depending on the level of intoxication, and repeat offenders may face even more severe penalties.

As Spain works to combat the growing number of alcohol-related accidents, the new regulation could significantly change how tourists approach the road when visiting popular destinations. Let’s explore the details of this new law, its potential impact on travelers, and how Spain plans to enforce these changes.

Overview of Spain’s New Alcohol Laws: Key Details for Tourists

• New Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limit: 0.2g per liter of blood (a significant reduction from the previous limit of 0.5g).
• Effect on Tourists: Tourists may face fines as low as €500 (£435) for exceeding the BAC limit, even after consuming a small glass of wine or beer.
• Enforcement Date: The law is expected to come into effect by the end of 2025.
• Potential Fines and Penalties:
  • Fines between €500 and €1,000 (£435-£875).
  • Prison sentences of 3 to 6 months for severe offenses.
  • Community service or a driving ban for up to 4 years.
• Context of the Law: The DGT aims to reduce alcohol-related accidents, which claimed 312 lives in 2022.
• Alcohol Limit for All Vehicles: The law applies to all drivers, including those on bicycles and e-scooters.

Understanding the Context: Why Spain is Implementing Stricter Laws

Spain has long been a top destination for international tourists, attracting millions each year with its vibrant cities, Mediterranean beaches, and renowned wine culture. However, the combination of holidaymakers and alcohol often leads to problematic behavior on the roads, particularly during the high season. In 2022, Spain experienced 4,283 alcohol-related accidents, resulting in 312 deaths and over 500 serious injuries. The government is determined to address this issue by implementing stricter regulations, including a lower BAC limit for all drivers.

The new law aims to reduce the percentage of drivers who get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. Countries such as Sweden and Norway, which have already implemented similar limits, have seen a significant reduction in road accidents, and Spain hopes to follow suit. The DGT has emphasized the need for a “zero-tolerance” approach when it comes to drinking and driving, advising drivers to refrain from consuming any alcohol if they plan to drive.

How the New Law Will Affect Tourists in Spain

Tourists visiting Spain often enjoy indulging in local wines and beers, especially in areas known for their culinary offerings. However, this new law could change how visitors approach their vacation activities, particularly when it comes to transportation. With the strict new limit, a single glass of wine or beer could potentially put someone over the threshold, leading to serious legal consequences. Here’s how the law could affect tourists:

• Tourists May Be Unaware of the Low BAC Limit: Many travelers are accustomed to higher BAC limits in their home countries and may not realize that even a small amount of alcohol can exceed the legal limit in Spain.
• Fines for Minor Offenses: A simple mistake, like having a drink with lunch or dinner before getting behind the wheel, could result in a fine. Tourists may face fines ranging from €500 to €1,000 (£435 to £875), depending on their BAC level.
• Increased Risk for Rental Car Drivers: Tourists who rent cars to explore Spain’s scenic roads and villages will be most affected by the new law. With many travelers unaware of the low BAC limit, the risk of inadvertently violating the law is higher.
• Possible Confusion in Tourist Areas: Popular party destinations like Mallorca, Ibiza, and Barcelona may see confusion as tourists struggle to understand and comply with the new regulations. This could lead to an uptick in fines and penalties, particularly in regions where alcohol consumption is a prominent part of the social scene.

Penalties and Fines for Violation of the New Driving Law

Spain’s new law will impose strict penalties for drivers found exceeding the BAC limit. Here’s what tourists could face if they are caught driving under the influence:

• Fines: Drivers caught with a BAC above the legal limit can face fines ranging from €500 to €1,000 (£435-£875), depending on the level of intoxication. The amount of the fine increases with the severity of the offense, with repeat offenders facing higher fines.
• Driving Ban: Offenders could also face a driving ban for up to four years, depending on the seriousness of the offense and their history of violations.
• Prison Time: In extreme cases, individuals who cause serious accidents while driving under the influence may face prison sentences ranging from three to six months. The DGT is determined to send a clear message to both locals and tourists that drink-driving will not be tolerated.
• Points Deduction: Spain uses a 12-point system for driving licenses, and drivers who violate the new alcohol rules may have points deducted from their licenses. A loss of points can result in a temporary or permanent suspension of driving privileges.
• Refusing a Breathalyzer Test: Refusing to undergo a breathalyzer test is a separate offense in Spain and can result in additional penalties, including a fine and a more severe legal response.

Impact on Popular Tourist Destinations

Tourists flock to Spain for its stunning beaches, historic cities, and vibrant nightlife. However, the new alcohol laws could change how visitors approach these destinations, particularly those known for their party culture.

• Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca): These islands, famous for their nightlife and beach bars, are likely to be among the most impacted by the new law. In regions like Playa de Palma and Magaluf, where alcohol is a central part of the tourist experience, visitors may face fines if they drink and drive, even if they’ve had just one beer or glass of wine.
• Costa Brava and Costa Blanca: These coastal areas, which attract tourists for their natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere, could also see a change in behavior. Tourists driving rental cars along scenic routes may not realize the extent to which the new BAC limits impact them.
• Madrid and Barcelona: Major cities like Madrid and Barcelona are well-known for their excellent food and wine scenes. While tourists may be more aware of drinking culture, the new law could lead to confusion for those who are unfamiliar with Spain’s low BAC limits.

Additional Measures to Curb Alcohol-Related Incidents

Spain has also implemented additional measures to control alcohol consumption and reduce anti-social behavior among tourists. These include:

• Six-Drink Limit: In some of Spain’s party regions, such as Playa de Palma and Magaluf, a six-drink limit has been introduced for all-inclusive holiday packages. This regulation applies to specific areas severely affected by excessive drinking.
• Late-Night Alcohol Ban: Starting in 2024, certain regions like Llucmajor, Palma, and Calvia will implement an alcohol sale ban between 9:30 PM and 8:00 AM, further curbing binge drinking and related accidents.
• Pub Crawl Ban: In areas like Magaluf’s infamous strip, pub crawls have been banned in an attempt to curb rowdy behavior and ensure public safety.

Conclusion: Navigating Spain’s New Drink-Driving Law

Tourists visiting Spain must now be more vigilant than ever when it comes to alcohol consumption and driving. The new proposed drink-driving law, with its low BAC limits, aims to reduce the country’s alcohol-related accidents and fatalities. While the law will undoubtedly help improve road safety, it could have significant implications for tourists who are unaware of Spain’s stringent rules. To avoid penalties, tourists should consider using public transport, taxis, or ride-hailing services if they plan to drink while exploring Spain.

By adhering to Spain’s zero-tolerance approach to drinking and driving, tourists can help make the roads safer and enjoy their vacations without the risk of facing hefty fines or legal consequences.