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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drive-bac-legal-limit

In most states, what is the legal blood alcohol (BAC) limit for drivers 21 and older?

0.08 percent. Utah is lower, at 0.05.

  1. 0.10 percent
  2. 0.02 percent
  3. 0.08 percent ✔

Why: Forty-nine states and DC make it a crime to drive at 0.08 BAC or higher. Utah's limit is 0.05. You can still be charged below the limit if alcohol affects your driving.

Huh, didn't know that: Drivers of vehicles that need a commercial license have a lower limit of 0.04 percent.

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References

Answer: 0.08 percent. Forty-nine states and DC make it a crime to drive at 0.08 BAC or higher. Utah's limit is 0.05. You can still be charged below the limit if alcohol affects your driving.

  1. IIHS: Alcohol and drugs www.iihs.org/topics/alcohol-and-drugs
    Forty-nine states and the District of Columbia have per se laws making it a crime to drive with a BAC at or above 0.08%.
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. California Driver's Handbook, Section 9: Alcohol and Drugs www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/california-driver-handbook/alcohol-and-drugs
    0.04% or higher if you drive a vehicle that requires a commercial driver's license.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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