What Each Level Does
At 0.02%: mild relaxation and slight loss of judgment. At 0.05%: coordination and reaction time measurably degrade, the level at which crash risk begins climbing steeply. At 0.08%: clear motor impairment, and at 0.15%: significant impairment with slurred speech.
The dose-response is unforgiving because the skills alcohol degrades, divided attention, reaction time, risk perception, are exactly the skills driving demands.
Limits Around the World
Most of Europe, Australia, and much of Asia set the limit at 0.05%; several countries (Sweden, Norway, Poland) use 0.02%. The U.S. at 0.08% is among the most permissive, with Utah the exception at 0.05%.
Commercial drivers and under-21 drivers face far stricter limits, often 0.02% or zero tolerance.
The Only Thing That Lowers BAC
The liver metabolizes alcohol at a nearly fixed rate: about 0.015% per hour, one standard drink per hour for an average adult. Coffee, showers, and exercise do nothing to speed it.
From 0.08%, expect roughly 5–6 hours to zero. The only safe plan is a plan made before the first drink: a designated driver, transit, or sleeping where you're.
Sources
FAQ
What is the legal BAC limit?
0.08% in most U.S. states, 0.05% in Utah and much of the world, and commercial drivers often face 0.02–0.04%.
How long until my BAC reaches zero?
Divide your BAC by 0.015% per hour: from 0.08%, about 5–6 hours. No food, coffee, or shower shortens it.
Can I be impaired below the legal limit?
Absolutely, measurable impairment begins near 0.02%, and crash risk rises well before 0.08%.
Important disclaimer: Results are educational estimates, not a substitute for professional advice. Review your numbers with a qualified advisor before acting on them.