Under the zero tolerance law, what BAC level can lead to a charge of driving under the influence for individuals under 21?

The zero tolerance law is designed to prevent underage drinking and driving by establishing strict penalties for young drivers who have any measurable amount of alcohol in their system. In this context, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of .02% can lead to a charge of driving under the influence for individuals under 21 years old.

This low threshold reflects the intended goal of the law, which is to deter any consumption of alcohol by minors prior to driving. A BAC of .02% is significant enough to impair a young driver’s judgment and reaction time, even if it may not produce noticeable effects in an older, more experienced driver. This strict enforcement helps to uphold road safety and discourages underage drinking, making it clear that any amount of alcohol consumed by those under 21 can have serious legal repercussions.