Drunk cyclist asks police to take a breath test – 1.75 per mille!

Drunk cyclist asks police to take a breath test – 1.75 per mille!

In Schwerin, a young cyclist made an unexpected appearance that surprised both him and the police. On Friday evening, August 25, 2025, the 23-year-old knocked on the window of a police vehicle that stopped at a traffic light on the corner of Schelfstrasse and Knaudtstrasse. When asked why he was concerned, he admitted that he had previously consumed several alcoholic drinks and now wanted to know whether he was still fit to drive. An unconventional step that would get him into trouble, as NDR's reporting shows, because the police carried out a breath alcohol test.

The result was not very pleasant for the young man: instead of happy celebratory moods, the test result showed 1.75 per mille. This amount is well above the legal limit for cyclists, which is considered a criminal offense from 1.6 per mille and thus defines them as absolutely unfit to drive. Both the fact that he was driving under the influence of alcohol and the result of the test now lead to criminal proceedings for drunk driving.

Difficult legal situation for cyclists

But what does that mean specifically for cyclists in Germany? The alcohol limit for cycling is clearly defined. From 1.6 per mille, the law stipulates a fine of around 30 daily rates - that's roughly a month's salary. In addition, two points are entered in the fitness to drive register in Flensburg. There are complicated regulations surrounding alcohol consumption while cycling, which often pose challenges for those affected. According to information from the ADAC, it is even possible for cycling to be prohibited if there is a risk that the driver will be drunk again. What is particularly painful is that the driving license authority also orders a medical-psychological examination (MPU) for cyclists with an alcohol level of 1.6 per mille or more, even if they do not have a driving license.

Despite all these regulations, there is one exception: drunk pedestrians who push a bicycle are not guilty of a criminal offense unless they show abusive behavior, such as riding in a serpentine line. The same blood alcohol limit applies to e-bikes that reach speeds of up to 25 km/h as to conventional bicycles. However, a different regulation applies to faster e-bikes that are powered solely by a motor.

Another important point is the 0.0 per mille rule, which applies to new drivers on probation or under 21 years of age for motor vehicles, but not for bicycles. This shows that the legal framework can actually cause confusion and that anyone who gets on the bike is well advised to avoid alcohol when in doubt.

The story of the reserved cyclist from Schwerin could be an important warning for many. Even if the urge to check one's own ability to drive is understandable, it should be clear to everyone that responsible use of alcohol is essential, especially on the road. After all, a nice evening shouldn't end in an unpleasant experience. If you think about these rules, you will realize that cycling under the influence of alcohol is a risk that should be avoided if possible.