Vermont DUI Under 21

As in all states, there is a zero-tolerance law in Vermont for drivers under the age of 21, meaning minors pulled over and found to have a Blood Alcohol Content of over 0.2 can be arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI). While the penalties are not quite as steep as they are for adults found to be over the .08 limit, there are still life-long consequences for youths found to be drinking and driving, even in very small amounts.

Drivers Under 21 Can Be Charged With Normal DUI

On the other hand, if a minor is found to be operating a vehicle with a BAC over .08, they will be penalized as if they were of drinking age and are subject to all the terms of a much stiffer sentence.

First-Time Offense

A first-time DUI conviction as a minor results in a 6-month license suspension, possible fines and alcohol education and/or counseling. There is no mandatory jail time for a first-time conviction for minors.

Second-Time Offense

If you are arrested for a second DUI while under 21, you will be facing a year-long license suspension (or until you turn 21, which ever is longer) and a mandatory alcohol rehabilitation program of some sort. There is still no mandatory jail time for a second offense, but other penalties may be escalated or prolonged, depending on the case.

Over .08

If you are a minor and have been arrested and charged with a DUI for a BAC over .08 you are subject to all the consequences given to an adult drunk driver. Penalties will include license suspension, possible jail time depending on the severity of the case, increased fines, alcohol education and rehabilitation and much more.