Peth Test and the Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen)

The Peth test, measuring phosphatidylethanol (PEth) in blood, is increasingly used in Sweden by the Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen) in connection with driving license investigations. PEth is a biomarker of alcohol consumption, specifically indicating regular or excessive alcohol use. Its presence in the blood is a strong indicator of alcohol-related issues that could impair driving ability.

Why Transportstyrelsen Uses the Peth Test

Transportstyrelsen employs the Peth test to assess whether an individual meets the medical requirements for holding a driver’s license. This is particularly relevant in cases where there are concerns about alcohol consumption, such as:

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): If someone is caught driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI), Transportstyrelsen will often launch an investigation. The Peth test is used to determine the person’s long-term drinking habits, not just their state at the time of the offense.
• Reports from Healthcare Professionals: Doctors and other healthcare providers are legally obligated to report concerns about a patient’s driving ability to Transportstyrelsen if they believe alcohol or drug use is a factor.
• Other Concerns: Any other information indicating potential alcohol abuse can trigger an investigation, leading to a Peth test request. This might include police reports, family member concerns, or employer reports.

How the Peth Test is Used in Driver’s License Investigations

When Transportstyrelsen initiates an investigation, they typically request the individual to undergo a medical examination. This examination often includes a blood test for PEth. The results of the Peth test are then evaluated alongside other information, such as medical history, self-reported drinking habits, and other blood tests (e.g., liver function tests like CDT – Carbohydrate-Deficient Transferrin).

Based on this comprehensive assessment, Transportstyrelsen decides whether the individual meets the medical requirements for holding a driver’s license. Possible outcomes include:

• Retention of License: If the Peth test results are within acceptable limits and other factors are favorable, the individual may retain their license.
• Warning: In some cases, a warning may be issued, especially if the PEth levels are slightly elevated.
• Conditional License: A conditional license may be granted, requiring regular follow-up testing (including PEth tests) to monitor alcohol consumption.
• Revocation of License: If the Peth test results indicate problematic alcohol use, and other factors support this, Transportstyrelsen may revoke the driver’s license. The individual may need to abstain from alcohol for a specific period and undergo repeated Peth tests before being eligible to reapply for a license.

Important Considerations

It’s crucial to understand that even relatively moderate alcohol consumption can result in detectable PEth levels. Transportstyrelsen uses specific cutoff values to determine if alcohol use is problematic in relation to driving safety. These cutoff levels are lower than those used for diagnosing alcohol dependence in a clinical setting. This reflects the agency’s focus on ensuring that drivers do not pose a risk to themselves or others on the road.

Individuals facing a driver’s license investigation involving a Peth test have the right to appeal Transportstyrelsen’s decisions. It is advisable to seek legal counsel in such situations.

Conclusion

The Peth test plays a significant role in Transportstyrelsen’s efforts to ensure road safety by identifying individuals with problematic alcohol consumption patterns. Its use contributes to preventing alcohol-related accidents and promoting responsible driving behavior in Sweden.