What is the maximum blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for drivers under 21 in Virginia?

In Virginia, the law mandates a zero tolerance policy for drivers under the age of 21, meaning that the maximum blood alcohol concentration (BAC) they are allowed to have while operating a vehicle is 0.00%. This translates to a legal requirement that drivers in this age group must not have any measurable amount of alcohol in their system while driving. The rationale behind this strict standard is to enhance safety for all road users, as younger drivers might not have the experience to safely handle the effects of alcohol, even at low levels.

It is important to promote responsible driving behaviors among younger individuals, and enforcing a 0.00% BAC limit aims to discourage underage drinking and driving altogether. Other BAC limits that are higher, such as 0.01%, 0.05%, or 0.10%, do not apply to drivers under the age of 21 in Virginia, emphasizing the state's commitment to preventing drunk driving among young people.