Check Your BAC Before You Drive
Use our free BAC calculator to estimate your blood alcohol content and ensure you stay within legal limits. Remember: when in doubt, don't drive.
United States Legal BAC Limits
All 50 States Follow Federal Guidelines
All US states have adopted the federal standard of 0.08 BAC for adults 21 and over, with one notable exception:
Utah has a lower limit of 0.05 BAC for all drivers 21 and over, effective since December 2018.
International BAC Limits
Global Trends in BAC Limits
Stricter Limits (0.05 or lower)
Many countries are adopting lower BAC limits based on research showing impairment begins at lower levels. Australia, most of Europe, and some US states have moved to 0.05 or lower.
Zero Tolerance Countries
Several countries have adopted zero tolerance policies, making any detectable alcohol illegal while driving. This eliminates guesswork and promotes complete sobriety.
DUI Penalties & Consequences
Immediate Consequences
- License suspension (immediate in most states)
- Vehicle impoundment or immobilization
- Arrest and jail time
- Ignition interlock device requirement
Long-term Impact
- Increased insurance premiums
- Employment consequences
- Professional license impacts
- Criminal record and background checks
The total cost of a DUI can exceed $10,000-$15,000 including fines, legal fees, increased insurance, license reinstatement, and lost wages. This doesn't include the personal and professional consequences.
Stay Safe & Legal
Before You Drink
- • Plan alternative transportation (designated driver, rideshare, taxi)
- • Know your local BAC limits and penalties
- • Set a drink limit and stick to it
- • Eat food before and while drinking
- • Use our BAC calculator to estimate your levels
If You've Been Drinking
- • Never drive if you feel impaired at all
- • Wait at least one hour per drink before considering driving
- • Use rideshare, taxi, or call a friend
- • Stay overnight if necessary
- • Remember: coffee and cold showers don't lower BAC