Main content

    HealthWise KnowledgeBase

    Self-Test for Breath Alcohol

    Self-Test for Breath Alcohol



    Results

    A breath alcohol test is an estimate of your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). The test measures the amount of alcohol in the air that you breathe out (exhale). Results are ready right away.

    Manual (glass tube/balloon) test

    To read the glass tube breath alcohol test, count the number of yellow bands of crystals that turn green.

    • 1 green band roughly corresponds to a BAC of 0.00 to 0.05.
    • 2 green bands roughly corresponds to a BAC of 0.05 to 0.10.
    • 3 green bands roughly corresponds to a BAC of 0.10 to 0.15.

    Electronic breath alcohol meter

    Some electronic devices have a "traffic light" display.

    • A green light means a BAC below 0.04.
    • A yellow light means a BAC between 0.04 and 0.08.
    • A red light means a BAC above 0.08.

    Some devices display the results as an estimated BAC numerical value.




    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: Reference November 8, 2011
    Medical Review: Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
    Reference R. Steven Tharratt, MD, MPVM, FACP, FCCP - Pulmonology, Critical Care Medicine, Medical Toxicology


    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.


    Topic Contents