Most states have "zero tolerance" policies for DUI offenders under the age of 21, the age limit for buying or publicly possessing alcohol set by the National Minimum Drinking Age Act of 1984. Here are some basics to help you determine your state's laws and penalties for a DUI as a minor.
Check your state's restrictions and penalties at Web sites like DUI Laws (see Resources below) or your state's goverment Web site. DUI statutes are set by each state, and while some states do not require an arrest or additional chemical test for minors, others do.
2
Determine how your state treats various blood alcohol content (BAC) levels for minors. Offenses with a BAC under .01 usually carry a lesser penalty than incidents involving higher BAC levels, but laws differ from state to state.
3
Speak to a lawyer or youth advocate. Some states require fines, jail time or community service for DUI offenders under 21. You may also be sentenced to a juvenile DUI program. A lawyer can help you reduce the penalty of your DUI.
4
Research your school's rules on DUI offenses. Some high schools and colleges have regulations regarding minors with DUI arrests driving on campus.
5
Seek out a peer support or recovery group like LifeRing to discuss DUI offenses (see Resources below). Minors may reduce their penalties by enrolling in treatment programs, which can also reduce the chances of a repeat offense.
6
Appeal an undesirable DMV or court decision. If you have been charged with a DUI and do not agree with the penalty, work with a lawyer to appeal the ruling.
Tips & Warnings
Almost all states immediately suspend or revoke the license of any minor caught driving under the influence. The suspension can last a year in some cases, or until the age of 18 or 21 in others.
Minors do not have the same rights as adults regarding DUI arrests. In some states, minors automatically give consent for chemical tests by completing a driving test, while in others a chemical test is not needed to determine whether a minor is driving under the influence of alcohol.
Minor in Possession and DUI Laws in Nebraska. According to the "Grand Island Independent" newspaper, underage drinking in Nebraska was responsible for...
