Schnieder opposes the imposition of a 0.0 parts per million limit in circulation
In a series of recent statements, Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder has shared his views on various road safety issues, including alcohol limits for driving, cannabis use, senior drivers, and speed limits on motorways.
Regarding alcohol limits, Schnieder confirmed that the current legal blood alcohol limit for driving in Germany remains at up to **0.5‰**. For novice drivers and those under 21, a zero-tolerance policy is in place, meaning even the slightest amount of alcohol can result in penalties. The Minister stated that he does not plan to lower the limit to 0.0 per mille.
On the topic of cannabis, Schnieder expressed concerns about its unpredictable effects on traffic. Germany has established a legal THC limit for driving at **3.5 ng/ml of active THC** in the blood as of 2025. The Minister emphasised the need for awareness and adherence to the new THC limits to avoid legal repercussions.
Senior drivers are a subject of interest for Schnieder, who does not believe they pose a particular risk on the roads. However, he did not express a view on mandatory driving tests for the very young. According to the Federal Statistical Office's 2023 findings, older people are less likely to be involved in traffic accidents compared to their share of the total population.
In terms of speed limits on motorways, Schnieder cited many factors contributing to the average speed being significantly lower than 115 kilometers per hour, such as speed limits, construction sites, and traffic jams. The Minister does not consider a general speed limit on motorways necessary, stating that the current limit is "sufficient and effective."
Lastly, Schnieder, who drives an electric car privately in his home region of the Eifel, does not drive to work, and does not express a view on mandatory driving tests for older drivers. His focus remains on maintaining road safety while promoting the use of environmentally friendly transportation methods.
What about the integration of science and health-and-wellness in addressing mental health concerns for road users? Minister Schnieder, with his emphasis on promoting environmentally friendly transportation, might also advocate for initiatives that support the mental well-being of drivers, ensuring they are less stressed and more focused on the road. For instance, incorporating stress management techniques, such as mindfulness exercises, in driver education programs could potentially improve road safety.
