Smoking Smoking bans are not compulsory at work. However, increasingly more companies and public buildings are banning smoking as they are concerned for the health of their employees and want to create a healthier work environment. Most of these companies and public buildings have set aside areas where smoking is allowed. From the age of 16 it is legally allowed to buy beer and wine. To buy liquor you must be 18 years old.
Alcoholic beverages are for sale at liquor stores and supermarkets.
Supermarkets only sell beer, wine and alcoholic beverages with an alcohol percentage up to 12 to 13 percent. Driving under the influence is a criminal offense and applies to driving a car and riding a motor bike, scooter, moped or bicycle. If you are over 1.8 blood alcohol level your case will be taken to court. In addition to a fine, you may be temporarily banned from driving. However, the use of drugs is not an offense beacuse the aim of Dutch policy is to prevent and limit the damage drug use causes both the individual and society.