What does Zero Tolerance / .02 BAC mean for drivers under 21?

The correct understanding of Zero Tolerance / .02 BAC for drivers under 21 is that it is illegal for them to have any alcohol present while driving. This law is designed to discourage any alcohol consumption among young drivers, acknowledging that their judgment and coordination can be adversely affected even with very small amounts of alcohol in their system. The .02 BAC limit means that if a driver under 21 has any measurable alcohol in their bloodstream, they can face penalties, including fines, license suspension, and other legal repercussions.

The rationale for this strict policy is the goal of promoting safety on the roads, especially among novice drivers who may not have the experience necessary to handle the effects of alcohol. Driving under the influence, even at seemingly low levels of BAC, can significantly impair a person's ability to operate a vehicle safely, which is why the law takes a firm stance with a zero-tolerance approach for individuals under the legal drinking age.