Alcohol and Drug Limits
- 1/20Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) reaches 0.08 while operating a vehicle
In Massachusetts, a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or more results in automatic license suspension, even before a conviction. This is enforced under the implied consent law.
Refuse breath test during roadside traffic stop
Refusing a chemical test leads to immediate suspension under the implied consent law, even if you have not been convicted of Operating Under the Influence (OUI).
Under 21 with Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) level of 0.02
Massachusetts has zero tolerance for underage drinking and driving. A Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of just 0.02 is enough to suspend a license.
Found transporting alcohol alone under age 21
Underage drivers caught transporting alcohol without a parent or guardian may lose their license for up to 90 days or more.
Breath test is refused by a 17 year old driver
If you are under 18 and refuse a chemical test, your license can be suspended for up to four years in Massachusetts.
Found driving after taking impairing prescription pills
Driving under the influence of legal or illegal drugs is treated the same as alcohol in Massachusetts. Penalties apply equally.
Using fake ID to purchase liquor at bar
Possessing or using a false ID to obtain alcohol even if you do not drink it results in a one year license suspension.
Transporting open beer can inside the car
Massachusetts law prohibits open alcoholic containers in the vehicles passenger area. This applies even if the driver is not drinking.
Caught buying alcohol underage without an adult present
If an underage person buys or attempts to buy alcohol, their license is suspended for 180 days regardless of whether they were driving.
Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) level reaches 0.15 after arrest
High Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) levels (0.15 or more) usually result in ignition interlock device installation as a requirement for reinstating a license.
Two Driving Under the Influence (DUI) convictions followed by license reinstatement
After two or more Operating Under the Influence (OUI) convictions, an ignition interlock device is mandatory to get a hardship or reinstated license in Massachusetts.
Marijuana use affects ability to drive at night
Even though marijuana is legal, driving while high is not. It affects judgment, reaction time, and night vision.
Arrested for giving alcohol to a minor
Providing alcohol to someone under 21 even without driving can result in criminal charges and Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) license penalties.
Driving past officers at a sobriety checkpoint
Officers at checkpoints can legally stop and test drivers if they show signs of impairment or admit to drinking.
Under 21 caught drinking in a parked vehicle
The open container law applies even in non moving vehicles. Underage drivers face suspension and possibly criminal charges.
Third Driving Under the Influence (DUI) conviction within five years
Repeated Driving Under the Influence (DUI) offenses can result in permanent loss of driving privileges in Massachusetts. Additional penalties and jail time may apply.
First Driving Under the Influence (DUI) charge leads to court hearing next week
Upon arrest, your license is suspended for 30 days or until the court resolves the case, whichever is sooner.
Parent allows teen to drink and then drive
In Massachusetts, adults who knowingly supply alcohol to underage drivers can face civil and criminal penalties.
Driver tries to explain away alcohol odor to police
Police may begin field sobriety or chemical testing if they smell alcohol or receive admission of drinking even if you deny impairment.
Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) detected by interlock during morning ignition attempt
Interlock devices prevent the car from starting if alcohol is detected. You must pass a breath test to drive.