For drivers under the age of 21 in Maryland, what is the maximum legal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC)?

The maximum legal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) for drivers under the age of 21 in Maryland is 0.02. This low threshold reflects a strict zero-tolerance policy toward underage drinking and driving, emphasizing the importance of keeping young drivers safe on the roads. The rationale is that even small amounts of alcohol can impair a young person's ability to drive safely, and this law is designed to prevent any alcohol-related incidents among young drivers.

In contrast, other BAC limits such as 0.08 and 0.10 apply to drivers over the age of 21, who are legally allowed to consume alcohol, albeit in moderation. A BAC of 0.00 would suggest a complete prohibition of alcohol; however, the established legal limit for underage drivers is notably set at 0.02 to account for tolerances similar to incidental exposure to alcohol, such as mouthwash. Thus, the 0.02 limit serves to discourage underage drinking while still providing a small allowance that acknowledges minor factors.