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What is the legal alcohol level when driving?
I’m not a big drinker, but I occasionally have a drink or two when I’m out with my friends. I’m pretty careful to not drive if I feel buzzed, but is even one drink too many to drive? What’s the legal alcohol limit for driving?
Macy Fouse · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
The legal alcohol level when driving is a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08%. This BAC limit applies in every state; however, penalties for driving with a higher BAC vary depending on where you live.
The amount of alcohol it takes to reach a certain BAC varies depending on your weight. For example, a female who weighs 120 pounds can usually consume about two standard drinks before her BAC reaches 0.08%, but a male weighing 200 pounds can typically consume four standard drinks to reach 0.08%. A standard drink includes one 12-ounce regular beer, one 1.5-ounce shot of liquor, or one five-ounce glass of wine.
Other factors that can influence your BAC include:
- Number of drinks consumed
- Window of time drinks are consumed
- Water composition
- Medications
- Food
- Hormone levels
Just because 0.08 is the legal limit doesn’t mean it’s safe to drive at a lower BAC—your reasoning and senses suffer minor impairment at a BAC of just 0.04%. If you’ve been drinking, it’s best to find a sober ride or use a rideshare service.
Just because you make smart driving decisions, doesn’t mean other drivers will. That’s why it’s crucial to carry great
car insurance
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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