When your child gets their driver’s licence, it’s a proud moment — but it also comes with new responsibilities and concerns. One of the biggest? Making sure they understand the importance of not driving under the influence of alcohol. That’s where a personal breathalyser can make a real difference.
Parents are often concerned with how they can better support their teenagers in developing safe and responsible habits behind the wheel. Fortunately, breathalysers offer a simple, reliable way to educate, build awareness, and give peace of mind before any drive.
Why more parents are buying personal breathalysers
In Australia, drink driving remains one of the leading contributors to road accidents — especially among young drivers. Even with strict P-plater alcohol limits, situations like parties, social gatherings, or post-dinner drinks can leave your teen unsure about whether they’re safe to drive.
That uncertainty is where a breathalyser helps. By giving your teen a quick, accurate reading of their blood alcohol content (BAC), they can make informed decisions instead of risky guesses.
For parents, it’s also about accountability — helping your teen take responsibility for their actions while showing them that safety always comes first.
LEARN MORE: Why guessing your BAC is a dangerous mistake
What to look for in a breathalyser for your teen
Not all breathalysers are made equal. If you're choosing one for your teen (or even the whole family), here are some key features to keep in mind:
Easy to use
A clear display, one-button operation, and quick testing process ensure your teen won’t skip the test just because it’s fiddly.
Compact and portable
Smaller units are more likely to be carried — whether it’s in their bag, glovebox or jacket pocket.
Australian Standards certified
Look for devices that meet AS 3547 certification to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Fast response time
When you’re running out the door or heading home from a night out, fast results matter. Aim for a device that delivers readings in seconds. Learn more about personal breathalysers in our Beginner’s Guide to Personal Breathalysers.
Two great options for parents: Andatech GT & AlcoSense Nexus
Andatech GT personal breathalyser
One of the fastest and most compact models on the market, the GT is fast, discreet, and built for everyday use.
- Blow and read — results in just 1 second
- Super easy to use with a simple one-button operation
- Eco-friendly experience — use paper straws if mouthpieces are unavailable
- Just 7cm in height and 5cm in width making it super easy to carry
It’s the breathalyser your teen will actually use — without fuss or excuses.
Alcosense Nexus smartphone breathalyser
If you’re looking for an advanced option that helps you monitor and support responsible driving habits, the Nexus is a powerful companion for parents.
- Results you can trust – Accurate fuel cell sensor for consistent BAC readings.
- Track their safety – Pair the device to the Andalink app to monitor results anytime.
- Always ready – Calibration reminders ensure it's working when it matters most.
- Fast readings – Results in under 5 seconds for quick, confident decisions.
The Nexus adds an extra layer of visibility for parents who want to ensure their teens are making smart decisions before getting behind the wheel — even when you’re not around.
Breathalysers as a teaching tool
A breathalyser isn’t just for testing — it’s a learning experience. It opens the door to valuable conversations around alcohol, responsibility, and making safe choices.
You can show your teen how alcohol affects BAC, discuss how factors like body weight and food impact readings, and reinforce that if there’s ever doubt, they shouldn’t drive.
Your teen might roll their eyes at first — but giving them access to a personal breathalyser is a proactive and practical way to keep them safe. It's a small investment that can make a big difference, not just in legal compliance, but in forming lifelong safe driving habits.
Explore our full range of certified personal breathalysers and help your teen drive smarter and safer.
