Underage DUI

Yes. Drivers under the age of 21 can be charged with DUI in Alabama. Underage drivers face the same DUI laws that apply to adults, but they may also be subject to Alabama’s zero-tolerance laws and additional consequences because of their age.

A DUI conviction as a young driver can affect more than just your license. It may impact school, scholarships, employment opportunities, insurance rates, and future career plans.

Alabama has stricter alcohol laws for drivers under the age of 21. A driver under 21 may face consequences for having any measurable amount of alcohol in their system while operating a vehicle.

Unlike drivers who are 21 or older, who are generally subject to the 0.08% BAC limit, underage drivers can face penalties at much lower alcohol levels.

Yes.

An underage driver may be charged with DUI if they are found to be operating a vehicle while impaired by:

• Alcohol 
• Illegal drugs 
• Prescription medications that impair driving ability 
• A combination of substances 

The prosecution does not have to show that the driver was legally allowed to consume the substance. The focus is whether the driver's ability to operate the vehicle safely was impaired.

The consequences depend on the circumstances of the case, including:

• The driver's age 
• Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) 
• Whether it is a first offense or repeat offense 
• Whether there was an accident or injury 
• Whether other aggravating factors were present 

Possible consequences may include:

• Driver's license suspension 
• Fines and court costs 
• Alcohol education or treatment programs 
• Probation 
• Community service 
• Ignition interlock requirements in certain cases 
• A permanent criminal record if convicted of DUI 

Yes.

A DUI arrest or conviction can result in serious consequences for a young driver's license. Alabama's implied consent laws may also apply if the driver refuses a chemical test, potentially resulting in additional license consequences.

Because license issues often involve strict deadlines, it is important to address them quickly after an arrest.

Yes.

A DUI conviction may create complications with:

• College admissions 
• Scholarships 
• Student organizations 
• Campus housing 
• Professional programs 
• Future employment opportunities 

Each school and scholarship program has its own rules regarding criminal charges and convictions.

Yes.

Insurance companies often view DUI-related offenses as high-risk factors. A conviction may result in:

• Increased insurance premiums 
• Loss of coverage 
• Difficulty obtaining affordable insurance 

The impact may continue for several years.

Possibly.

A DUI arrest does not automatically mean a conviction. Depending on the facts, an attorney may challenge:

• The legality of the traffic stop 
• The officer's observations 
• Field sobriety testing 
• Breath or blood test results 
• Whether proper procedures were followed 
• Whether the evidence supports impairment 

Every DUI case is different, and available defenses depend on the specific circumstances.

Yes.

An underage DUI can have consequences that follow a young person well into adulthood. An experienced Alabama DUI attorney can help protect the driver's rights, explain the legal process, and work toward the best possible resolution.

If you, or someone you know, are facing DUI charges, contact us today at 251-300-0275 to schedule a consultation to begin to process of retaining Blake Vrieze.