DUI Laws

UTAH'S DUI LAWS FOR UNDERAGE DRINKING AND DRIVING

ARE THE LAWS FOR DRINKING AND DRIVING THE SAME FOR ADULTS AND PEOPLE UNDER 21?

No! Utah has a ZERO TOLERANCE policy for all drivers under the age of 21. That means you cannot have any measurable alcohol - zero, NONE - in your body when you drive a vehicle.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR PEOPLE UNDER 21 WHO DRINK AND DRIVE?

In addition to putting your life and the lives of others in danger, you're going to be in serious legal trouble, too. If you have any alcohol in your body when you drive and you're under 21, you will lose your license for at least 90 days and up a year. You can be convicted of a class B misdemeanor - that means you have a criminal record! And, the court will order you to get an ignition interlock system on any vehicle that you own or operate.

CAN I BE CITED FOR DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF AN OVER-THE-COUNTER DRUG?

Yes. If you are under the influence of any drug, including over the counter medications, you may be convicted of a crime. This could also include substances such as paint thinner, gasoline, or other inhalants. If a person has any measurable controlled substance (illegal drugs), or the metabolite of a controlled substance in their body, the law prohibits them from driving. Metabolites from illegal drugs can be detectable for 30 days or more after you use them.

CAN I REFUSE TO SUBMIT TO A CHEMICAL TEST?

Yes. However, by signing your driver license application, you are giving consent to a chemical test of your breath, blood, urine, or oral fluids. If you refuse to submit to a chemical test, you will lose your license for 18 months on the first offense.