Greece’s new and stricter drink-driving regulations appear to be having a clear impact, as extensive alcohol checks during the Christmas and New Year holidays recorded notably low numbers of violations, according to traffic police data.
Authorities attribute the results to tighter legal limits on alcohol consumption, intensified roadside testing, and significantly harsher penalties introduced under the revised Road Traffic Code. Together, these measures aim to curb driving under the influence and improve road safety during peak holiday travel periods.
In the wider Athens metropolitan area, police carried out 6,129 breathalyzer tests between the morning of December 31, 2025, and the morning of January 1, 2026. Only 62 drivers tested above the legal alcohol limit. A similar picture emerged on Christmas Eve, when 6,804 tests were conducted and 87 drivers were found to be over the limit. Notably, just one driver exceeded the highest threshold that leads to immediate criminal proceedings.
Traffic police officials say the figures suggest a shift in driver attitudes, with many motorists choosing to limit or avoid alcohol consumption altogether. The new rules effectively impose a “measured drinking” approach, with clear thresholds and escalating consequences.
Under the current law, drivers found with alcohol levels between 0.25 and 0.39 milligrams per liter of breath face a €350 fine and a one-month license suspension. Higher readings bring steeper penalties: fines of up to €700, longer license suspensions, and vehicle plate removal. At the highest level, drivers face fines of €1,200, a six-month driving ban, and criminal prosecution, which may include a prison sentence.
Repeat offenders face even tougher consequences, with fines multiplied and driving bans that can extend for several years.