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  I've seen many different mentions of this on other forums. The general consensus seems to be that it's a proposal for future legislation. Last night, however Jeremy Clarkson ( sometimes known as JC for some reason, as if he's a higher power) said they are compulsory.

  I suppose if JC says it, then so be it.

The legal limit for drink-driving in France is 50mg per 100ml of blood, while in the UK it is 80mg per 100ml.

‘The new French rule is a genuine attempt to reduce the number of alcohol-related accidents,’ said IAM director of policy and research Neil Greig. ‘The country's lower limit means it’s very easy to be over the limit the morning after as well.’

Existing laws require all motorists driving in France to carry a warning triangle and a high-visibility vest, while UK drivers must display a ‘GB’ badge and have headlights adjusted for driving on the right

http://www.whatcar.com/car-news/breathalysers-needed-in-france-from-july/261414?

Quote: Originally posted by mikegalagher on 27/2/2012Where's that info from Stuart ? Been looking on the AA driving abroad pages, and Alan Rogers advice, and no mention still.

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I would wait till the law is introduced and buy one that meets the spec required by the french authorities.

Saxo1

I think, from what I've read elsewhere, that this is a bit 'Chinese Whispers' - originally from a story about Nicholas Sarkozy trying to stamp out drink driving, with a suggestion that everyone convicted of a drink-driving offence would be required to carry a breathalyser.

Suddenly it seems to have become 'Everyone', including foreign drivers, people from religious backgrounds where alcohol is not acceptable, people who have never drunk in their lives, and Uncle Tom Cobley and all.  It's then gathered legs, and every mention on forums like this one, Top Gear, the Caravan Club, and all, seem to be quoting a start date..............!   Try to find the French original, though, and you'll struggle - and most French people admit that nothing whatsoever will happen until after the election in May and then who know......................! 

My 'voice of reason' suggests that we all wait and see - there will be an official announcement, and typically the French will have a grace period, so that those who need it will have time to equip themselves, but I'm not going to rush out and buy one.

I can't imagine that the Gendarmes or Police or whoever is reponsible for 'policing' this is going to be chasing everybody and his dog to try to collect an 11/17/19 euro fine! (Deends what/where you've read about it).  I doubt it will even cover the cost of the paperwork involved.