FAQ: HOW DOES THE STATE OF MISSOURI HANDLE A FIRST TIME UNDERAGE DWI?

A first-time underage DUI in Missouri is a serious charge with consequences that can follow someone long past their teenage years. Missouri’s laws are strict, the penalties are harsh, and the long-term impact on a young driver’s future can be significant.

Whether you’re a parent trying to protect your child or a young driver facing your first real legal challenge, here’s what you need to know. If you or your child has been charged with an underage DWI/DUI in Kansas City, call Speeding Ticket KC immediately.

We can help. Schedule a free and confidential case evaluation with one of our experienced MIssouri DUI attorneys near me in Kansas City.

1. What qualifies as an underage DUI in Missouri?

Missouri has a Zero Tolerance Law for drivers under 21. While adults are charged with DUI at 0.08% BAC, anyone under 21 can be charged with an alcohol offense at just 0.02% BAC.

This means:

• One or two drinks can trigger a charge.
• Officers can cite underage drivers for alcohol possession and DUI.
• You can be charged even if you didn’t feel intoxicated.

Underage DUIs are aggressively enforced statewide.

2. Is a first-time underage DUI a misdemeanor?

Yes. A first underage DUI is typically a Class B misdemeanor, carrying:

• Up to 6 months in jail
• Fines up to $1,000
• Mandatory alcohol education
• Possible probation

In practice, jail time is rare for a first offense — but the long-term consequences are very real.

3. Will an underage DUI cause a driver’s license suspension?

Yes. Missouri automatically opens two separate actions:

Criminal Case (Handled in Court): This decides guilt, penalties, probation, etc.

Administrative Alcohol Suspension (Handled by Missouri DOR): For underage drivers, this is especially strict. Suspensions include:

• 90-day suspension for a first offense
• 1-year revocation if the driver refuses a breath test
• Mandatory SR-22 insurance

And unlike adults, underage drivers have fewer reinstatement options.

4. Can I drive during the suspension?

Sometimes. Many first-time underage DUI offenders can qualify for a:

• Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP)
• Ignition Interlock Device requirement
• Mandatory SR-22 filing

These licenses typically allow driving for work, school, medical appointments, and other essential needs. A trusted Kansas City traffic attorney can help secure this privilege quickly.

5. Will an underage DUI stay on my record forever?

Not necessarily — but only if you fight it.

If convicted, the DUI stays on your record for 10 years before you can apply for expungement. However:

• If your lawyer gets it amended to a lesser charge,
• Or negotiated into a diversion program,
• Or dismissed due to weak evidence,

…then the DUI never becomes part of your long-term record.

This is why parents and young drivers need strong legal defense early.

6. What penalties can I expect besides the suspension?

A first-time underage DUI may come with:

• Court-mandated alcohol education
• SATOP (Substance Awareness Traffic Offender Program)
• Community service
• Random drug/alcohol testing
• Probation
• Fines and court costs
• Loss of scholarships or student housing

College students often face separate penalties through their university’s disciplinary system.

7. What happens if I refused the breath test?

Refusing a breath test triggers Missouri’s Implied Consent Law, which results in:

• 1-year license revocation
• Mandatory SR-22 insurance
• Possible ignition interlock device
• Negative impact on any plea negotiations

Your lawyer can challenge the refusal at an administrative hearing — but you only have 15 days to request it.

8. Can a lawyer get a first-time underage DUI reduced or dismissed?

Often, yes. Defense strategies include:

• Challenging the legality of the traffic stop
• Questioning the accuracy of the breathalyzer
• Reviewing dash cam/body cam footage
• Highlighting improper field sobriety testing
• Seeking deferred prosecution or diversion
• Negotiating a reduced charge like “Minor in Possession” or “Careless Driving”

These alternatives protect the young driver’s record and future.

9. Will an underage DUI affect scholarships or employment?

It can. A DUI can impact:

• FAFSA eligibility
• Campus housing
• College admissions
• Military entry
• Internships
• Jobs requiring driving
• Insurance premiums for the entire household

Avoiding a conviction is crucial for long-term stability.

10. What should I do if my child or I have been charged?

Do not plead guilty. Do not assume you’re stuck with the charge. Instead — here’s what you do:

1. Call a Kansas City DUI lawyer immediately — that’s us.
2. Let your attorney request the DOR hearing (you only get 15 days).
3. Begin gathering paperwork — ticket, bond paperwork, police reports.
4. Stay silent; let your lawyer handle all communication.

The earlier you get legal help, the better the outcome.

CALL SPEEDING TICKET KC TODAY

Protect your future — not just your license.

A first-time underage DUI can feel like the end of the world, but it doesn’t have to define a young driver’s future. Speeding Ticket KC fights aggressively to reduce charges, protect driving privileges, and keep records clean.

When you get a traffic ticket in Kansas City, you have two choices:

1. pay it and live with the consequences,
2. or fight it with an experienced Missouri traffic attorney by your side.

At Speeding Ticket KC, we help drivers contest tickets, reduce points, and protect their licenses. Our firm has handled thousands of traffic cases throughout Missouri, earning a reputation for quick, affordable results. We know how to challenge radar readings, negotiate with prosecutors, and keep your driving record intact.

Don’t let one mistake cost you time, money, and peace of mind.

Call Speeding Ticket KC today for a free consultation with an affordable Kansas City traffic lawyer.

Cities we serve: Adrian, Archie, Bates City, Belton, Blue Springs, Buckner, Butler, Cameron, Claycomo, Cleveland,  Drexel, Fairview,  Ferrelview,  Gladstone, Grain Valley, Grandview, Greenwood, Houston Lake, Independence, Kansas City Missouri, Kearney, , Knob Noster, Lake Lotawana, Lake Tapawingo, Lake Waukomis, Lake Winnebago, Lawson, Lee’s Summit, Liberty, North Kansas City, Oak Grove, Oakview,  Parkville, Peculiar,, Platte City, Platte Woods, Plattsburg, Pleasant Hill,  Raymore, Raytown, Riverside, Smithville, Sugar Creek, Tracy,  Warrensberg, Weatherby Lake, and Weston.

Statewide: Missouri State Highway Patrol and Sheriff Counties we serve: Bates County, Cass County, Clay County, Jackson County, Platte County, Ray County.

Contact our experienced Kansas City traffic defense lawyers near me in Missouri and let us help begin building your defense. Let us help.

Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Always consult qualified counsel regarding your unique situation.