Underage DUI In Arizona

Arizona has some of the strictest DUI laws in the country — and they are even stricter for drivers under 21.  Under Arizona’s “zero tolerance” policy, drivers under the age of 21 can be charged with DUI for having any measurable amount of alcohol in their system.  Unlike standard DUI laws that require a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08%, underage drivers can face penalties with a BAC as low as 0.01%.

For young drivers and their families, these cases can have lasting consequences that extend well beyond a temporary license suspension.

What Is Arizona’s Zero Tolerance Law?

Arizona law makes it unlawful for a person under 21 to drive or be in actual physical control of a vehicle with any spirituous liquor in their body.

This means:

• You do not need to be “impaired.”
• You do not need to be at 0.08%.
• Even trace alcohol can result in charges.

If the BAC is 0.08% or higher or evidence of impairment, the driver may face standard DUI charges in addition to underage violations.

Potential Penalties for Underage DUI

Penalties may include:

• Two-year driver’s license suspension (for zero tolerance violation)
• Fines and court fees
• Alcohol screening and education programs
• Possible jail (if charged under standard DUI statutes)
• Ignition interlock requirement (in some cases)

If the BAC is elevated into Extreme or Super Extreme ranges, mandatory jail exposure increases significantly.

College and Future Implications

For young adults, a DUI conviction can affect:

• College disciplinary proceedings
• Scholarship eligibility
• Graduate school applications
• Employment opportunities
• Professional licensing pathways

Even a misdemeanor DUI remains on a criminal record permanently in Arizona.

Defense Considerations in Underage DUI Cases

Key legal issues may include:

• Legality of the traffic stop
• Accuracy of breath or blood testing
• Calibration and maintenance of testing devices
• Actual physical control arguments

In zero tolerance cases, even small testing inaccuracies may be significant.

At Queen Creek Law Firm, we understand that an underage DUI is not just about short-term penalties — it is about protecting a young person’s long-term future.

Contact us today to get started.

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice.  Reading does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Laws vary by state and individual circumstances.  If you have questions about your specific situation, consult with a qualified attorney.