Complete ban for novice drivers
New limit for cannabis while driving applies immediately
22.08.2024, 01:15 am
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The 0.5 per mille limit applies to alcohol behind the wheel. There is now also a similar limit for cannabis. Until now – despite the partial legalization of the drug – the mere detection of THC in the body could cost you your driving license.
The following now apply to drivers: new regulations and fines for cannabis while driving. This includes a legal limit for the intoxicating substance THC, similar to the 0.5 per mille limit for alcohol.
Anyone driving with 3.5 nanograms of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) per milliliter of blood or more now risks a 500 euro fine and a one-month driving ban. If they also drink alcohol, they face a 1,000 euro fine. The traffic regulations come alongside the partial legalization of cannabis, which has permitted smoking and private cultivation for adults since April 1st, subject to many requirements. The Federal Ministry of Transport stated that the law that has come into force creates legal certainty and legal clarity.
Special regulations for novice and young drivers are contributing to road safety. As with alcohol, there is now a complete ban on cannabis during the two-year driving license probation period and for drivers under 21 years of age – the limit of 3.5 nanograms does not apply. Violations are subject to a fine of 250 euros, but no driving ban.
Until now, the strict line was that consequences were threatened simply by detecting THC in the body. There was no limit for this, but a value of 1 nanogram was established in case law. At the traffic court day, however, experts spoke out in favor of an “appropriate” increase in 2022. This is because the value is so low that many people are sanctioned for whom there is no justification for a reduction in driving safety. However, criticism also came from police representatives, among others.