When a minor decides to drive after drinking alcohol, they can face some long-term legal problems. The courts take DUI offenses seriously since drivers are inexperienced.
License Suspension
For a first-time offense where BAC is between 0.02 and 0.07 percent, the young driver will lose their license for 6 months. This low BAC threshold reflects the zero-tolerance approach to underage drinking and driving.
The suspension is longer when BAC is 0.08 percent or higher. The law is strict on test refusal, with an automatic one-year suspension for any minor who refuses to take a breath test.
For repeat offenders, the suspension periods become even longer.
Financial Penalties
Courts can impose fines from $500 to $2,000, depending on the BAC level and whether it's a repeat offense. Beyond initial fines, convicted minors will face higher insurance premiums for several years.
Community Service
Courts often include community service as part of the sentence. The number of service hours varies, and many work with organizations that deal directly with the consequences of impaired driving.
Jail Time
Minors with a BAC of 0.08 percent or higher can face jail time, especially if they were involved in accidents or injuries. Second offenses can cause up to 1 year of jail time.
Other Penalties and Requirements
- Vehicle impoundment
- Probation periods with regular check-ins, drug and alcohol testing, and compliance with court-ordered programs.
Technology-Based Monitoring
Installing ignition interlock devices is one modern way to prevent repeat offenses. Courts are now ordering these devices for minors in cases of high BAC or repeat offenses.
Long-Term Consequences
An underage DUI conviction can have long-term consequences, affecting:
- College applications
- Job prospects
- Career paths
- Military service
- Professional licensing
- Insurance premiums
- Future driving privileges
Impact on Insurance and Future Driving Privileges
Insurance companies usually respond to underage DUI convictions with significant premium increases. Some may even refuse to cover, forcing families to get high-risk insurance.
Future driving privileges may still be restricted even after the license is reinstated. These may include nighttime driving restrictions, passenger restrictions, or the requirement to keep a clean record.
Supporting Young Offenders
Despite the harshness of underage DUI penalties, the end goal is the rehabilitation and successful reintegration of young offenders into society. Support services, counseling, and mentoring programs can help young people learn from their mistakes.
Speak to a DUI Lawyer Now
If you are the parent of a teen who has been charged with DUI, speak to a criminal defense attorney right away.
