In Minnesota, drivers under the age of 21 face some of the toughest drunk driving laws in the country. If you’re a minor caught with any detectable amount of alcohol in your system while behind the wheel, the consequences can be immediate—and life-altering.
Whether it’s a single drink or even just the residual alcohol from the night before, Minnesota’s “Not a Drop” law means zero wiggle room for underage drivers. Here’s what you need to know if you or someone you care about is facing an underage DWI charge.
Minnesota’s “Not a Drop” Law: Zero Tolerance for Underage Drinking and Driving
Under Minnesota Statute § 169A.33, it is illegal for any driver under 21 to operate a motor vehicle with any detectable amount of alcohol in their system. This law is commonly referred to as the “Not a Drop” law—and it means exactly what it says: not a drop of alcohol is allowed if you’re behind the wheel and under 21.
Even if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is well below the adult legal limit of 0.08%, you can still face serious penalties just for testing positive for any amount of alcohol.
Consequences of Violating the Not a Drop Law
If you’re under 21 and found to have consumed alcohol while driving, the penalties include:
-
License suspension: First-time offenders typically face a 30-day license suspension. A second offense increases the suspension to 180 days.
-
Fines and court fees: You may be required to pay court fines and fees—even for a first offense.
-
Mandatory alcohol education programs: The court may order participation in a DWI education or chemical dependency program.
-
Increased insurance rates: A DWI conviction or alcohol-related suspension on your record can cause your auto insurance premiums to skyrocket.
-
Criminal record: While a first “Not a Drop” violation is not always a criminal offense, if your BAC is 0.08% or higher, you may be charged with a standard DWI, which is a misdemeanor and can result in jail time and a permanent criminal record.
What If Your BAC Is 0.08% or Higher?
If you’re under 21 and test at or above the 0.08% BAC threshold, you’re not just facing “Not a Drop” penalties—you’re looking at the same DWI charges and consequences as an adult.
This can include:
-
Up to 90 days in jail
-
A criminal conviction
-
$1,000 in fines
-
Longer license revocation periods
-
Possible ignition interlock device requirements
Additional Charges Are Common
Underage DWI cases often involve more than one legal issue. In many cases, you might also be facing:
-
Minor in possession of alcohol
-
Fake ID use
-
Open container violations
-
Possession of alcohol in a vehicle Each additional charge can compound the consequences and create a much more complex legal situation.
Why You Need a Lawyer—Fast
Underage drinking and driving charges can derail college plans, employment opportunities, and your driving privileges. If you or your child has been charged with a “Not a Drop” violation or an underage DWI, don’t try to face it alone.
At Martine Law, we’ve helped clients throughout Minnesota fight back against these charges and protect their futures. We understand how to navigate the juvenile and adult court systems, negotiate with prosecutors, and push back against improperly collected evidence or unlawful stops.
Final Thoughts: One Mistake Shouldn’t Define Your Future
Teenagers and young adults make mistakes—but that doesn’t mean one bad night should define the rest of your life. The good news is that legal options may be available to reduce or dismiss charges, protect your driving privileges, and preserve your record.
If you’ve been charged with underage DWI or a Not a Drop violation in Minnesota, contact Martine Law today for a consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and work with you to build the strongest possible defense.