At what point does the DMV take action against a driver under 21 with alcohol in their system?

The DMV takes action against drivers under 21 with alcohol in their system at a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.01%. This specific threshold is set because of California's zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving. The law reflects the state's commitment to preventing alcohol-related incidents among young drivers, acknowledging that their brains are still developing and that even small amounts of alcohol can significantly impair their ability to operate a vehicle safely.

In enforcing this policy, the DMV aims to deter underage drinking and driving by imposing penalties even for very low levels of alcohol consumption. This approach differs from the legal limit for adult drivers, which is typically 0.08%. Understanding this nuanced distinction is crucial for young drivers, as it emphasizes the seriousness of drinking and driving regardless of age.