Key Takeaways:
- Georgia has zero tolerance for drivers under 21—any BAC over 0.02% can lead to a DUI charge.
- Penalties for underage DUI include license suspension, fines, probation, community service, and even jail time.
- A DUI conviction can impact college, scholarships, jobs, and immigration status.
- You don’t have to plead guilty—an experienced defense lawyer can help fight the charge or reduce the penalties.
- Hines Law defends young drivers across Georgia with aggressive legal strategies and compassionate support for families.
Georgia’s Zero Tolerance DUI Law for Drivers Under 21
In Georgia, the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit for adults is 0.08%.
But if you’re under 21, the law is much stricter.
If you have a BAC of 0.02% or higher, you can be charged with DUI—even if you don’t feel intoxicated.
That means:
- One beer, one glass of wine, or one shot could put you over the limit.
- You can be arrested even if you were driving safely.
The state’s message is clear: No alcohol and driving under 21.
Penalties for an Underage DUI in Georgia
If you’re under 21 and convicted of DUI, here’s what you could face:
First Offense (Under 21):
- License suspension: Minimum 6 months
- Up to 12 months probation
- $300–$1,000 in fines
- 20+ hours of community service
- Mandatory DUI Risk Reduction Program (DUI School)
- Jail time of up to 10 days
If your BAC is above 0.08%, penalties increase significantly—even for a first offense.
Second DUI or Higher:
- Longer license suspension (up to 3 years)
- Mandatory jail time
- Substance abuse treatment
- More fines, probation, and community service
How a DUI Can Affect Your Future
A DUI on your record doesn’t just disappear. It can:
- Disqualify you from scholarships or college admissions
- Affect your immigration status if you’re not a citizen
- Make it hard to get a job, especially in fields like healthcare, education, or government
- Cause your car insurance rates to skyrocket
- Haunt you in background checks for apartments, loans, or security clearances
Your future is too important to risk. That’s why it’s crucial to fight the charge from the start.
Can a DUI Be Dismissed or Reduced?
Yes. Hines Law has helped many young drivers avoid a DUI conviction through:
- Negotiating a lesser charge like Reckless Driving
- Challenging the traffic stop (Was there probable cause?)
- Questioning the breath or blood test results
- Seeking First Offender or Conditional Discharge options
Every case is different—but you have options, and we know how to use them.
Defending Against Underage DUI Charges
Our legal team takes a multi-step defense approach, including:
- Reviewing the bodycam and dashcam footage
- Challenging field sobriety test procedures
- Filing motions to suppress illegal evidence
- Exploring plea deals or alternative sentencing
- Keeping your record as clean as possible
We don’t just “show up to court”—we build a strategic defense plan tailored to your life, your goals, and your future.
Special Concerns for Latino Youth and Immigrant Families
For Latino families, especially those with undocumented parents or DACA recipients, a DUI can feel even more terrifying.
- Immigration consequences may include inadmissibility, deportation, or denial of a green card.
- Law enforcement may contact ICE after an arrest—even for young people.
- Hines Law understands these risks and works closely with immigration attorneys when needed.
We provide full Spanish-language support, explain every step, and make sure your family feels informed and protected.
FAQ – Under 21 DUI in Georgia
Can I lose my license for my first DUI under 21?
Yes. Even a first offense leads to automatic license suspension—minimum 6 months.
Is there a way to avoid jail?
Yes. In many cases, we negotiate probation or alternative sentencing to avoid jail time—especially for first-time offenders.
Will this stay on my record forever?
A DUI conviction stays on your criminal record. But we may be able to avoid a conviction or seal the record later if eligible.
Do I need a lawyer if it’s just my first time?
Absolutely. A first-time DUI can still impact your future—don’t plead guilty without a fight.
Under 21 and Facing DUI Charges? Call Hines Law Now
A DUI doesn’t have to ruin your future. With the right legal help, you may be able to avoid conviction, keep your record clean, and get back on track.
- Call or text us today for a free consultation
- Bilingual team available 24/7
- Serving young people and families across Gwinnett, Cobb, Hall, Clayton, Fulton & DeKalb
- No judgment. Just legal protection.