Alcohol, Drugs & the Junior Operator Law
Operating under the influence is a serious crime in Massachusetts, and drivers under 18 face added rules under the Junior Operator Law. Knowing these limits protects your license and your safety.
BAC limits
A driver 21 or older is legally impaired at 0.08 percent BAC, though you can be charged below that if impaired. Drugs and some medications can also lead to an operating-under-the-influence charge.
Junior Operator Law zero tolerance
Drivers under 21 face a 0.02 percent BAC limit under the Junior Operator Law. Any measurable alcohol can suspend a young driver's license.
Junior operator restrictions and penalties
For the first months, junior operators may not drive during restricted late-night hours or carry passengers under 18 other than family, unless supervised. Speeding and other violations carry tougher penalties for junior operators, including license suspension and required retraining.