Pennsylvania Laws

Owned by Sara Halteman
Last updated: Jul 28, 2022 by Wayne Martin
3 min read

A minor in Pennsylvania may not buy (or attempt to buy), possess, or knowingly and intentionally transport alcohol; or knowingly use false identification (or other misrepresentations) to obtain alcohol. (Penn. Stat. & Con. Stats. Section 6307(a)& 6308(a).) It is also illegal for a minor to work serving or handling alcohol in an establishment that is licensed to sell alcohol (for example, a bar or night club). (Penn. Stat. & Con. Stats. Section 44.) There are few exceptions to these rules.

Illegal alcohol possession

In addition to possible driver's license suspension (for all violations), second and subsequent convictions are subject to a fine of up to $500 (as decided by the judge). Having consumed alcohol in a jurisdiction other than the jurisdiction where the citation was given is not a defense to these penalties. Breaking one of these laws is a "summary offense," meaning that the minor is not entitled to have a jury trial to determine his guilt. Instead, a judge considers the facts and situation, and rules on a punishment within the guidelines described above. (Penn. Stat. & Con. Stats. Section 6308(a)&(b).)

Misrepresenting age

A minor who misrepresents the minor's age to buy or consume alcohol is guilty of a summary offense (for first violations). For second and subsequent violations, the minor may be charged with a misdemeanor of the third degree. In addition to possible driver's license suspension (for all violations), the judge may impose a fine of up to $500 for second and subsequent violations. For all violations, the judge may also rule that the minor is delinquent, and impose an additional fine of up to $500. (Penn. Stat. & Con. Stats. Section 6307(a) & (b).)

Cost of a DUI

The costs associated with an impaired driving arrest can vary greatly depending on several factors, including blood alcohol content, location of arrest, and number of offenses. The effect on a driver's wallet starts the moment they are stopped by police. Here are a few expenses associated with a DUI.

  • Traffic fine: $300 - $10,000 depending on blood alcohol content and number of offenses
  • Towing vehicle: $50 flat fee plus mileage
  • Impound: $75-$175 per day
  • Legal fees: $2,000-$8,000 or more
  • Alcohol evaluation: $35-$100
  • Accelerated rehabilitative disposition (ARD): $100-$1,800
  • Education and treatment: $100-$1,000 or more
  • License restoration: $25 non-commercial, $75 commercial
  • Insurance premium: increase of about $1,000 a year or cancellation of policy

Apart from the financial aspects of a DUI arrest, there may also be social ramifications. Court appearances, community service requirements or jail time lead to lost time and lost wages — possibly job loss. A DUI conviction can also impede attempts to get a job, and cause embarrassment to your family.

Underage DUI

Pennsylvania's Zero Tolerance Law carries serious consequences for those under 21 who are convicted of driving with any amount of alcohol in their blood. For example, those under 21 who are convicted of driving under the influence with a .02 blood alcohol content, or greater, face severe penalties, including a 12-to 18-month license suspension, 48 hours to six months in jail, and fines from $500 to $5,000.
A vehicle does not have to be involved in order for those under 21 to lose their driving privileges. It is against the law for an individual under the age of 21 to consume, possesses or transport alcohol, or lie about their age to obtain alcohol and carry a fake identification card. If convicted, the minimum penalties are a fine of up to $500, plus court costs; a 90-day license suspension for the first offense; a one-year suspension for the second offense; and a two-year suspension for the third and subsequent offenses.