If you are under 21, at what BAC level can you be convicted for illegal consumption of alcohol?

In Virginia, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers under the age of 21 is set at .02. This means that if a driver under 21 is found to have a BAC of .02 or higher while operating a vehicle, they can be charged with illegal consumption of alcohol. The .02 limit is a specific legal standard designed to enforce stricter regulations on younger, less experienced drivers to reduce the risks associated with drinking and driving.

This approach acknowledges that even small amounts of alcohol can impair a young driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely, which is why a lower threshold is established compared to adults, who face a legal limit of .08 BAC. Therefore, the focus on a .02 BAC for individuals under 21 reflects the state's commitment to preventing alcohol-related incidents among young drivers and promoting safer driving conditions.