Vermont · Handbook chapter 8 · 3 min read
Chapter 8: Impaired, drowsy and distracted driving
Vermont alcohol limits for adults and drivers under 21, how alcohol affects driving, implied consent, drugs, drowsy driving, the portable electronic device ban and fines.
Why this chapter matters
The drinking driver is the number one cause of fatal crashes, and on average someone is killed by a drunk driver every 40 minutes. Phones and fatigue add more risk. Expect several questions on these limits and penalties.
Alcohol limits
| Driver | Limit |
|---|---|
| 21 or older | .08 BAC or above is "under the influence" |
| Under 21 | .02 or more is a civil traffic violation, with license suspension and an alcohol and driving program at your own cost |
You can be impaired below .08. Even one drink affects judgment.
What alcohol does
Alcohol is a depressant. It harms judgment, vision, concentration, understanding and your feel for speed, and it slows reaction time. Only time sobers you up: at least one hour per drink. Coffee, a cold shower or exercise do not help.
Other drugs
Prescription and over-the-counter drugs can be as dangerous as alcohol and may make you sleepy. A DUI or drugged driving conviction brings a license suspension, a large fine, an alcohol education class, possible jail and higher insurance.
Implied consent
By getting a license you agree to take a test for alcohol or drugs when an officer asks. Refusing costs your license for at least six months. Vermont also has an administrative suspension, so you can lose your license through a civil process before any criminal conviction.
Plan ahead
Use a designated driver who does not drink, call for a ride, stay overnight if safe, or hand your keys to a friend before you start drinking.
Drowsy driving
Signs include trouble focusing or keeping your eyes open, repeated yawning, not remembering the last few miles, drifting from your lane and missing signs. Young people, shift workers and people working long hours are most at risk. Opening a window or turning up the radio will not keep you awake. If you are looking for ways to stay awake, it is time to stop and rest.
Distracted driving
- Inattention and failure to yield are the most common driver errors in Vermont crashes with pedestrians and bicyclists.
- Preset radio stations, keep the volume low enough to hear sirens and trains, plan routes in advance, avoid eating, keep pets in a carrier, and groom at home.
- If you are upset, angry or worried, take time to calm down before you drive.
The electronic device law
- It is illegal to use a portable electronic device while driving on a public highway, even when the vehicle is stopped in traffic. Reading or sending messages is against the law.
- Fines: $100 to $200 for a first violation, $250 to $500 for a second or later one.
- In a work zone with workers present: 2 points for a first conviction and 5 points for a later one.
- Let calls go to voicemail or have a passenger make them, and secure your phone so it cannot fly around in a crash.
Frequently asked questions
What is the BAC limit for drivers under 21 in Vermont?
.02. At that level or above, an under-21 driver faces a civil violation and a license suspension.
What happens if I refuse a breath test?
You lose your license for at least six months.
How long does one drink take to leave your body?
At least an hour. Only time reduces the effects.
Can I use my phone while stopped at a red light?
No. The ban on portable electronic devices applies even when the vehicle is stationary on a public highway.
Based on the Vermont Driver's Manual (VN-007, 2025) and the Vermont DMV Learner's Permit page.