The drinking age in New Jersey is 21 and consumption of alcohol by anyone under 21 is illegal with the following exceptions:
Because underage drinkers cause a disproportionate number of alcohol-related auto fatalities, the standards are stricter and the penalties may be harsher for those under 21.
More information about New Jersey’s teen driving requirements.
New Jersey is a zero-tolerance state. If a chemical test determines that a driver under 21 has a blood alcohol content BAC of .01% or higher, the driver can be cited for driving under the influence. (For those 21 or older, the BAC is .08%)
| If you are under 21, drive with any detectable amount of alcohol in your system (.01 BAC or above), and are convicted for violating New Jersey’s zero tolerance law, the penalties are:
In addition, if First Drunk Driving Conviction: imprisonment (2 to 90 days), fine ($500 to $1,000), license suspension (90 days)(more information: First Offense DUI in New Jersey). The penalties are more severe if the BAC is above .10% |
| If Second Drunk Driving Conviction within 10 Years: imprisonment (Up to 1 year jail) fine ($500 up to $2,000) license suspension (2 years). (More Information: Second Offense DUI in New Jersey.) |
| What if you refuse the chemical test? Read about New Jersey implied consent laws. |
In addition to driving under the influence, an underage drinker may be charged with any of the following:
Aspen Live Residences Club Well Beyond Some insurance companies may terminate a policy after an underage DUI (while others refuse to renew). Most companies simply raise the cost of the monthly premium by $100 to $200 (sometimes higher) for a higher risk policy. The raise usually stays in place for three to five years. You’ll also probably need to furnish the DMV with an SR-22 certificate to reinstate a license after suspension (as proof of insurability). Most insurance companies furnish this form to the DMV. Check with your insurer to see if it performs this service.