Does any alcohol trigger action for drivers under 21?

Illinois Zero Tolerance can suspend a license for a detectable amount of alcohol, separate from a criminal DUI charge.

Can school or scholarships be affected?

Schools and programs may have conduct rules. Insurance and future applications can also be impacted by outcomes.

Do parents need to appear?

Appearance rules vary by courthouse and case. Deadlines and paperwork should be addressed promptly.

Illinois DUI

Under-21 (Zero Tolerance)

License consequences can apply even for a small BAC. Guidance for families in Cook, DuPage, Will, Kane, and Lake.

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Two Tracks: Zero Tolerance & Criminal DUI

Zero Tolerance

Administrative license action for under-21 drivers with any trace of alcohol. Timelines are short.

Criminal DUI

Separate court case with its own requirements, defenses, and potential penalties.

Life Impact

Insurance, school, scholarship, employment, and travel can be affected by the outcome.

Defense Review

Traffic stop and age determination procedures
SFST instructions vs. video performance
Portable and evidentiary testing records
Parental notice and release procedures

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Courts We Serve

Cook • DuPage • Will • Kane • Lake

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Cook County

Chicago (Daley Center)
Skokie
Rolling Meadows
Maywood
Bridgeview
Markham

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DuPage County

Wheaton
Glendale Heights

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Will County

Joliet
Bolingbrook
Plainfield
Frankfort

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Kane County

Geneva
St. Charles
Aurora
Elgin

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Lake County

Waukegan
Park City
Round Lake
Mundelein

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Under-21 FAQs

Can a Zero Tolerance suspension be challenged?

Deadlines apply; outcomes depend on evidence and procedure.

Will this be on a permanent record?

Records depend on the case result and specific record rules. Ask about options.

Get Help for an Under-21 Case