Missouri drivers who are caught driving while intoxicated can be arrested and face serious penalties. Drivers younger than 21 can have their licenses suspended for certain offenses. You should understand what those offenses are if you choose to drive while intoxicated.

What is the legal limit for drivers under 21?

Like other states, Missouri’s DWI laws prohibit people from driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Where the legal limit is 0.08% for adults 21 and older, the blood alcohol concentration or BAC limit is 0.02% for those younger than 21. If a driver under 21 is found to have a BAC that’s higher, they could face serious penalties.

What offenses can result in a license suspension for drivers under 21?

The state has a law known as “abuse and lose,” which means a person under 21 years old can face license suspension if they commit certain offenses. A driver under 21 who is guilty of DWI who commits any type of alcohol violation can lose their license whether they have consumed alcoholic beverages or are found with alcohol in their vehicle.

Offenses involving the possession of drugs or controlled substances can also result in a license suspension.

Driving while using a fake license can also result in an automatic license suspension for individuals younger than 21.

A person can also lose their license if they are found to be in possession of or using alcohol if they are younger than 18 and it is their second offense.

If a driver under the age of 21 is stopped by a police officer and given a breath test that determines their BAC is higher than 0.08% or higher, they can face standard penalties, including a suspension of their driver’s license.

The best way to avoid a DWI and license suspension is to avoid drinking and to be responsible while behind the wheel.