Under what condition can someone under 21 be charged with DWI?

In several states, individuals under the age of 21 are subject to stricter regulations regarding alcohol consumption than those 21 and older. This is referred to as a "zero tolerance" policy, which means that any detectable alcohol in the system can lead to a DWI charge.

Specifically, having a BAC of .02 or higher is the threshold that may result in severe penalties for someone under 21. This lower limit reflects the legal expectation that individuals who are not of legal drinking age should not consume any alcohol. Therefore, if an underage driver registers a BAC at or above this level, it serves as strong grounds for a DWI charge, emphasizing the societal aim to deter underage drinking and ensure public safety on the roads.

This regulation is particularly important as it aligns with the broader initiative to prevent underage drinking and its associated dangers, ideally leading to fewer alcohol-related accidents among young drivers. The other options do not meet the specific legal criteria for DWI charges under the under 21 age bracket.