Underaged drinking, especially when it involves getting behind the wheel, can have a big effect on your life. While it’s not unusual for people under 21 to drink, making the decision to drive if you do can land you with some hefty consequences.
First, you may be facing legal repercussions for underage drinking and driving charges. These vary based on the severity of your misconduct and how many violations you have had in the past. Penalties can include:
- Fines
- License suspension or revocation
- Jail time
- Community service
- Possession charges
- Criminal record
Even after you fulfill the penalties required of you from criminal charges, a record can continue to have effects. First, it can create college admissions troubles. Universities can reject students based on a DUI or criminal record. Similarly, a criminal record may make it more difficult to get financial aid.
If you are already enrolled in college, a DUI or other charges surrounding underaged drinking can still change things. Often, police will report student violations to the universities, meaning that you will be facing both legal penalties and school punishments. Even if law enforcement clears you of charges, you may still have to face your college. They can put you on suspension, probation or even expel you for criminal activities and actions that go against their code of conduct.
Outside of school, a DUI or criminal record can make it more difficult for you to get a job or can affect a job that you currently have. Some employers have regulations that allow them to let people go if they have criminal charges, and the penalties of a DUI can affect your ability to do your job.
