Penalties for Drunk Driving Under the Age of 21
Drivers under the age of 21 who are arrested for a DUI face serious charges for both illegally drinking and drunk driving. In Rhode Island there is a zero tolerance penalty for offenders under 21, meaning that you can be arrested for having even a small amount of alcohol in your system. Having a DUI on your record, especially at such a young age, can severely limit your future opportunities, including employment and educational opportunities.
Drunk drivers under 21 face different consequences than those over 21 who get a DUI. Either way, you are charged with an offense that goes on your criminal record. If you are under 21 and have been charged with a DUI, you need an experienced lawyer who can defend you in the courtroom. Contact Rhode Island DUI attorney Matthew Marin today at 401-287-4384.
DUI for Offenders Under 18
Minors arrested for a DUI face the following charges for a first offense:
- Driver’s license suspension for 6 to 18 months
- 10 to 60 days of community service
- Fines up to $500
- Possible enrollment in a DUI educational course
Minors arrested for a DUI face the following charges for a second offense:
- Driver’s license suspension until the minor is 21
- Fines up to $500
- Possible enrollment at Rhode Island Training School for up to 1 year
DUI for Offenders Age 18-21
For a DUI between the ages of 18-21, the offender faces the following penalties:
- Driver’s license suspension for 1 to 3 months
- Fines up to $250
- Up to 30 hours community service
- Possible enrollment in a DUI educational course
- Possible enrollment in an alcohol and drug treatment program
Contact Us
A DUI is a serious charge, regardless of age. It can remain on your criminal record your entire life if you are sentenced, hurting you personally and professionally even years later. If you are under 21 and are facing DUI charges, don’t go into the courtroom feeling unprepared. Contact aggressive, experienced Rhode Island DUI lawyer Matthew Marin today at 401-287-4384.
