Underage DUI Laws in Illinois
If you’re under 21 and caught driving with any trace of alcohol in your system in Illinois, you’re in serious legal territory. Illinois follows a Zero Tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving. That means any amount of alcohol in your system—yes, even one sip—can land you with a DUI charge and license suspension.
Let’s break it down so you know exactly what you’re up against—and how to protect yourself.
Zero Tolerance = 0.00% BAC Limit
Unlike adults, who can legally drive with a BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) under 0.08%, drivers under 21 in Illinois are held to a strict 0.00% BAC limit. That means:
Even trace amounts of alcohol can lead to DUI charges
You could lose your license—even if you didn’t “feel drunk”
First-time violations trigger a 3-month license suspension
A second offense within five years? That’s a minimum 1-year suspension
What Happens If You’re Pulled Over?
If a police officer pulls you over and suspects alcohol use, a chemical test (breathalyzer or blood test) can confirm your BAC. If any alcohol is detected:
Your license is automatically suspended
You’ll likely face criminal charges, not just traffic court
Your record could be affected for years
Penalties for Underage DUI in Illinois
The penalties are no joke. Depending on your age and the details of your case, here’s what could happen:
3-12 month license suspension for first-time offenders
1-year suspension for a second offense within 5 years
Fines up to $2,500
Mandatory DUI education, rehab, or community service
Installation of a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID)
Jail time in extreme cases or if someone was hurt
And remember: If you're under 18, even tougher penalties may apply.
Criminal Record & Long-Term Impact
An underage DUI isn’t just a traffic ticket—it’s a criminal offense in Illinois. That means:
It can show up on background checks
You might be denied jobs, scholarships, or housing
Future DUIs carry much harsher penalties
And if you caused an accident, especially with injuries? You could be looking at felony charges, huge fines, and serious jail time.
Getting Your License Back
After your suspension period, you’ll need to jump through a few hoops:
Complete an alcohol and drug evaluation
Finish any required treatment or education
Show proof of insurance (SR-22)
Pay all reinstatement fees to the Secretary of State
Only then can you apply for full reinstatement of your driving privileges.
Facing an Underage DUI? You Need a DUI Attorney ASAP!
Getting charged with an underage DUI can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to go through it alone.
Call Lake County criminal defense attorney Alan Lenczycki at 847-262-9888 for a free consultation. With years of experience defending clients just like you, Alan is here to fight for your rights and help you navigate the legal system with confidence.
Don’t wait. The sooner you act, the more options you’ll have.
