---
title: "What is the BAC limit for a first-time DUI in Rhode Island?"
description: "The legal BAC limit for first-time DUI in Rhode Island is 0.08 percent for drivers 21 and over, 0.02 percent for drivers under 21 (zero-tolerance law), and 0.04 percent for commercial drivers..."
url: https://www.chadbanklaw.com/faq-items/what-is-the-bac-limit-for-a-first-time-dui-in-rhode-island/
date: 2026-05-23
modified: 2026-05-23
author: "The Law Office of Chad F Bank"
type: avada_faq
lang: en
---

# What is the BAC limit for a first-time DUI in Rhode Island?

The legal BAC limit for first-time DUI in Rhode Island is 0.08 percent for drivers 21 and over, 0.02 percent for drivers under 21 (zero-tolerance law), and 0.04 percent for commercial drivers operating commercial vehicles. Being at or above these thresholds is per se DUI under R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-27-2, meaning the prosecution does not need to prove actual impairment beyond the test result. First-time DUI defendants can also be charged below 0.08 if other evidence (driving behavior, field sobriety performance, statements at scene) supports impairment.