Know the Law

WA State Laws: If you are under 21. . .

  • Zero Tolerance Law
    In Washington State if you are under the age of 21, you don’t even have to be buzzed to be busted. On your first offense with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of .02-.07 percent, you could lose your license for 90 days. On a subsequent offense, you could lose your license until you are 21.
     
  • Minor in Possession (MIP)
    You do not have to be in actual possession of alcohol to be cited for an MIP. If you are exhibiting the effects of having consumed alcohol (alcohol on your breath, results of a breathalyzer test, statements by others, etc.), you may be charged with an MIP offense. The maximum penalty is one year in jail, a $5,000 fine, or both.
     
  • MIP or Other Alcohol Violations: Lose Your Driver’s License
    If you are between the ages of 13 and 17, any alcohol or firearm offense could result in the loss of your driver’s license for one year, or until you are 17, whichever is longer. This includes Minor in Possession (MIP) and/or Consumption of Alcohol (MIC). (RCW 66.44.270 and RCW 10.31.100).
     
  • fake idFake ID’s
    Having a fake ID may seem fun at first, until you get caught with it. Consider these facts in Washington State:
    • It is illegal (misdemeanor) in Washington State to possess an ID not belonging to you. (RCW 66.20.200)
      • Minimum Fine: $250, with a maximum of $1000.
      • Up to 90 days in jail.
      • If community restitution is required, a minimum of 25 hours community service.
    • It is illegal (misdemeanor) for any person to give or loan his ID to another person for the purpose of purchasing alcohol. (RCW 66.20.200)
      • Minimum Fine: $250, with a maximum of $1000.
      • Up to 90 days in jail.
      • If community restitution is required, a minimum of 25 hours community service.
    • Thinking about making your own fake ID’s? It is a gross misdemeanor for any person to forge, alter, or manufacture false identification to supply to persons under 21. (RCW 66.44.328)
      • Minimum fine: $2,500.
      • Up to one year in jail.