Alcohol Abuse Health Center

How To Prepare

General instructions

• Check the expiration date on the package. Don't use the test if the expiration date has passed.
• Store the testing device correctly. If the device should be stored in the refrigerator or kept in a cool place, make sure you place it in an appropriate storage area.
• Follow the instructions exactly. All test kits come with detailed instructions. Carefully read the instructions that come with your test before using it. Many test kits include a toll-free number you can call for more information.
• Note any special instructions you need to follow before you take the test. These might include avoiding certain foods or medicines.
• Follow every step of the instructions carefully.
  • Prepare and handle everything exactly as the instructions tell you.
  • Follow all the steps in sequence. Don't skip any steps.
  • If a step in the test needs to be timed, use a watch. Don't guess.
• Know your limits. If you are color-blind or have trouble distinguishing colors, have someone else read the test results for you. For some tests, you need to be able to see color changes in a test area or window.

Specific instructions

• Wait at least 15 minutes after having an alcoholic drink before testing your BAC. Trace amounts of alcohol left in your mouth from a recent drink or the use of mouthwash or mouth spray, such as mouth sprays to relieve a sore throat, can give false results.
• Do not smoke for 1 to 5 minutes before testing your BAC. Do not blow smoke into the device.
• Take at least two separate readings 15 minutes apart.

How It Is Done

Manual (glass tube/balloon) test

To obtain a breath alcohol reading:

• Blow into the balloon that comes with the kit until the balloon is almost full. Use one long breath, not several small breaths.
• Attach the balloon mouthpiece to one end of the glass tube filled with bands of yellow crystals.
• Let the air flow slowly out of the balloon and through the tube for exactly 1 minute.
• Count the number of bands of colored crystals in the tube that turn from yellow to green.

If your test has only the glass tube, blow through the tube for the amount of time in the instructions. Use one long breath, not several small breaths. Then look at the colored crystals to get the reading.

The amount of alcohol in your breath is based on the number of bands that change color and on the intensity of the color change.

Electronic breath alcohol meter

Follow the specific instructions that come with the device. With most meters, you:

• Turn on the meter and let it warm up for several minutes.
• Take a deep breath.
• Place your lips tightly around the mouthpiece. Blow steadily and continuously into the machine for the correct amount of time (usually 4 to 6 seconds). Use one long breath, not several small breaths.

The results appear as a digital readout in a display window. It may show a red or green "traffic light" or an estimated blood alcohol concentration (BAC). After you obtain the first reading, press the reset button and do a second test.