What is the permissible amount of alcohol for a person under 21?

The permissible amount of alcohol for a person under 21 years of age is set at zero. In North Carolina, as well as in many other states, individuals under the legal drinking age of 21 are not allowed to consume any alcohol. This zero-tolerance policy is designed to discourage underage drinking and to promote safety on the roads, particularly because younger drivers are more vulnerable to impaired driving effects.

Having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above zero for individuals under 21 can lead to serious legal consequences, including citations and license suspensions. It reinforces the belief that young drivers should not partake in alcohol consumption at all to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road. Compliance with this law helps to mitigate incidents of alcohol-related accidents among youth and is aligned with national initiatives aimed at reducing underage drinking.