The French authorities have postponed the requirement to carry breathalisers in vehicles from 1 Nov to March 2013.

Fines for drivers of all motor vehicles - including motorcyclists, - who are caught without a breathalyser kit, will be implemented in France from March 2013, according to the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM). The fines were due to be enforced from 1 November 2012.

All drivers in France are now required to carry a breathalyser kit and a €11 fine is will be applicable to all road users, except riders of mopeds, who do not comply.

Single-use breathalyser kits will satisfy the requirement.  The legal limit in France is 50 mg per 100 ml of blood, lower than in the UK (the UK limit is 80mg). They cost between £1 and £2 and are available at ferry and tunnel terminals for crossings to France. The French authorities hope the move will encourage drivers to test themselves to check if they are over the drink-drive limit before setting out.