Driving under the influence is always a serious offense, but when a minor is involved, the situation becomes even more complex. Many parents and teens don’t realize how strict the laws are.
In this blog, we’ll break down exactly what happens when a minor is accused of DUI, what legal consequences they may face, and how it can affect their future.
If you’re a parent or a young driver, it’s important to learn more about minor DUI charges so you can be better prepared.
What is a Minor DUI?
In most states, a “minor” refers to anyone under the age of 21. For adult drivers, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is typically 0.08%. But for minors, the law is much stricter. Many states have a “zero tolerance” policy, which means even a BAC of 0.01% can lead to a DUI charge.
In simple terms, if a minor has any detectable alcohol in their system while driving, they can be arrested for DUI—even if they don’t feel drunk or show signs of impairment. This strict standard is meant to discourage underage drinking and driving.
Immediate Legal Consequences
When a minor is accused of DUI, the consequences begin right away. Here’s what usually happens:
- License Suspension: In most cases, the minor’s driver’s license is immediately suspended. This can last anywhere from 30 days to several months or even a year, depending on the state and the severity of the offense.
- Fines and Penalties: The minor may be required to pay fines, attend DUI school, or complete community service hours. These penalties vary, but they can be both time-consuming and expensive.
- Court Appearance: A DUI charge means a court date is coming. The minor and their parents or legal guardians must appear in court, and in some cases, legal representation may be necessary.
Will the Minor Be Tried as an Adult?
This depends on the circumstances. Most first-time minor DUI offenses are handled in juvenile court. However, if the DUI caused an accident, injury, or involved extremely high BAC levels, the court may decide to charge the minor as an adult. This can lead to more severe penalties, including jail time and a permanent criminal record.
Long-Term Effects
DUI charges don’t just go away after a fine is paid. The consequences can follow a minor into adulthood. Some long-term effects include:
- Criminal Record: Even a juvenile record can affect college admissions, job opportunities, or applications for housing.
- Insurance Rates: Car insurance rates typically skyrocket after a DUI. Some insurance companies may even refuse to cover the minor entirely.
- Education Opportunities: Scholarships, internships, and exchange programs may be off-limits to students with DUI records.
Can the DUI Be Expunged?
In some cases, yes. After completing all the legal requirements, a minor may be able to request expungement, which means the DUI is removed from their public record. However, not all states allow this, and the process can be complicated.
Expungement doesn’t mean the charge never happened—it just means it’s hidden from public view. Law enforcement and some government agencies may still be able to see it.
What Should Parents Do?
If your child is accused of DUI, stay calm but act quickly. Contact a lawyer who handles juvenile DUI cases and gather all the facts. Be supportive, but also stress the seriousness of the situation.
This can also be a valuable moment to talk about the risks of drinking, peer pressure, and the importance of making smart choices behind the wheel. A mistake doesn’t have to define someone’s future, but it should be treated as a serious lesson.
Final Thoughts
When a minor is accused of driving under the influence, the impact can be life-changing. The legal system is strict, and the penalties are real—but with the right guidance and awareness, there’s also a path forward. Educating young drivers and parents about the risks and responsibilities can help prevent these situations in the first place.
The more we talk about it, the more we can protect the people we care about. Stay informed, stay safe, and always think before getting behind the wheel.
