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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drive-zero-tolerance-under-21

What is the alcohol limit for drivers under 21 in most states?

Zero tolerance: any measurable alcohol, 0.02 BAC or lower in most states.

  1. 0.08 percent, same as adults
  2. 0.02 percent or lower ✔
  3. 0.05 percent

Why: All 50 states ban drivers under 21 from driving with any detectable alcohol. Most set the line at 0.02 BAC, and some set it lower, like California at 0.01.

Huh, didn't know that: In New York, a first zero tolerance violation means a six-month license suspension.

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References

Answer: 0.02 percent or lower. All 50 states ban drivers under 21 from driving with any detectable alcohol. Most set the line at 0.02 BAC, and some set it lower, like California at 0.01.

  1. IIHS: Alcohol and drugs www.iihs.org/topics/alcohol-and-drugs
    In all 50 states, drivers younger than 21 are prohibited from operating a vehicle with any detectable blood alcohol.
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. New York State Driver's Manual, Chapter 9: Alcohol and Other Drugs dmv.ny.gov/new-york-state-drivers-manual-and-practice-tests/chapter-9-alcohol-and-other-drugs
    it is a violation for a person under 21 to drive with any BAC that can be measured (.02 to .07)
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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