Texas Laws on Underage Drinking

Effective September 1999, Texas lowered the BAC (Blood Alcohol Level) which defines intoxication (for the purpose of a DWI) from .1 to .08. Law enforcement officials may also find someone to be intoxicated or impaired based on their behavior and evidence that they are under the influence of a mind-altering substance.

Consumption While Driving

It is illegal for a minor to drive while having any detectable amount of alcohol in the minor's system

First Offense:

Class C misdemeanor: $0 - $500
Alcohol awareness course
20-40 hours community service
60 days driver's license suspension
30 days ineligible for occupational license

Second Offense:

Class C misdemeanor: $0 - $500
Alcohol awareness course
40-60 hours community service
120 days driver's license suspension
90 days ineligible for occupational license

Third Offense (Under 17):

180 days driver's license suspension
Ineligible for occupational license
Juvenile court-delinquent conduct; or adult criminal court

Third Offense (17 or older):

Class B misdemeanor: $500-$2000 and/or
Confinement in jail up to 180 days
180 days driver's license suspension
Ineligible for occupational license

Purchase, Attempt to Purchase, Possession, Consumption, Misrepresentation of Age, Public Intoxication by Minor

The following penalties shall be imposed:

First Offense:

Class C misdemeanor: $0 - $500
Alcohol awareness course
8-12 hours community service
30 days driver's license suspension or denial

Second Offense:

Class C misdemeanor: $0 - $500
Possible awareness course
20-40 hours community service
90 days driver's license suspension or denial

Third Offense (Under 17):

180 days driver's license suspension or denial
Juvenile court-child in need of supervision; or
Criminal court-adjudicated as an adult

Third Offense (17 or Older):

Class B misdemeanor: $250 - $2000 fine and/or
Confinement in jail up to 180 days
Possible alcohol awareness course
180 days driver's license suspension or denial