Most states have a zero-tolerance (or near zero-tolerance) blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of .02 for drivers under the legal drinking age (usually 21) that will result in a DUI/DWI charge. Some states set the BAC level at which a minor may be charged with DUI/DWI at .05. And some states will charge a minor driving a vehicle with a BAC of less than the state’s per se intoxication level (usually .08) with violating a zero-tolerance law such as driving while ability impaired (DWAI)—but will charge a minor with a BAC of .08 or more with per se (pronounced purr-say) DUI/DWI based on the state’s BAC-level definition of intoxication—or, in the absence of a chemical test of blood, breath, or urine, will charge the minor with common law DUI/DWI based on the police officer’s belief the minor was driving while intoxicated.

DUI/DWI criminal offenses, punishments, and terms used for underage DUI/DWI vary from state to state. These laws are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal code or criminal code.

In Delaware, the state adheres to a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving. This means that for drivers under the age of 21, any detectable amount of alcohol in their system can result in a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge. Specifically, Delaware law sets the BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) limit at .02 for drivers under the legal drinking age. If an underage driver is found to have a BAC of .08 or higher, they can be charged with the standard DUI offense, just like drivers of legal drinking age. The consequences of an underage DUI/DWI in Delaware can include fines, license suspension, and potentially even jail time, depending on the circumstances and whether it is a first or subsequent offense. It's important for minors to understand that Delaware takes underage drinking and driving very seriously, and the penalties reflect this stance.