Liquor law in Hawaii
Summary: Drinking Age in Hawaii
Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches, tropical climate, and laid-back atmosphere, but when it comes to drinking age, it's not much different than the rest of the United States. Here's what you need to know:
Legal Drinking Age in Hawaii
The legal drinking age in Hawaii, as in all US states, is 21 years old. It is illegal in Hawaii for anyone under the age of 21 to purchase, possess, or consume any alcoholic beverage.
Exceptions to the Rule
While the drinking age is 21 in Hawaii, there are a few exceptions to the rule.
- First, those who are at least 18 years old can serve alcohol in a licensed establishment so long as they are supervised by someone who is 21 or older.
- Second, the law allows parents and guardians to provide alcohol to their own children who are under 21 years of age while on private property.
- Finally, underage drinking is permitted for medical purposes when ordered by a licensed physician.
Consequences of Underage Drinking
Underage drinking is taken seriously in Hawaii and can lead to serious consequences. If caught drinking underage, an individual can face fines, community service, loss of their driver's license, and even time in jail. Additionally, Hawaii has a "zero tolerance" policy for underage drinking and driving.
Enforcement of Drinking Age Laws
The legal drinking age in Hawaii is enforced by law enforcement agencies, such as the police department and the state's Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Board. The ABC Board is responsible for enforcing the state's liquor laws, including the legal drinking age.
Overall, while Hawaii may seem like a carefree place to enjoy a drink, it's important to remember that the legal drinking age is 21 and that underage drinking can have serious consequences.
Overview of Driving and Alcohol Laws in Hawaii
Hawaii has strict laws regarding driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The state has a blood alcohol content (BAC) limit of 0.08 for drivers over 21 years old, and a zero tolerance policy for drivers under 21 years old.
Penalties for DUI Convictions
The penalties for DUI convictions in Hawaii vary depending on the level of impairment, number of previous convictions, and other factors.
- For a first-time DUI offense, the offender may face up to 48 hours in jail, a fine of $150-$1,000, and a license suspension of 90 days to one year.
- For a second DUI offense within 5 years, the offender may face up to 5 days in jail, a fine of $500-$1,500, and a license suspension of one year.
- For a third or subsequent offense within 5 years, the offender may face up to 30 days in jail, a fine of $500-$2,500, and a license revocation of two or more years.
Ignition Interlock Devices
Hawaii also has an ignition interlock program, which requires drivers convicted of DUI to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle. The IID requires the driver to blow into a breathalyzer before starting the car, and will not allow the car to start if the driver's BAC is above a certain level.
- For a first-time DUI offense, the offender may be required to install an IID for six months.
- For a second or subsequent offense, the offender may be required to install an IID for one year or more.
Other Alcohol-Related Driving Laws
In addition to DUI laws, Hawaii has other laws related to alcohol and driving.
- Open container laws prohibit drivers and passengers from possessing open containers of alcohol in a vehicle.
- Underage drinking laws prohibit anyone under the age of 21 from purchasing, possessing, or consuming alcohol.
- Dram shop laws hold establishments liable for serving alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person who then causes harm to themselves or others.
Overall, it is important for drivers to be aware of Hawaii's strict DUI and alcohol-related driving laws to avoid serious legal consequences and keep the roads safe.
Blood Alcohol Concentration in Hawaii
| Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits in Hawaii |
|---|
When it comes to drinking and driving, it's important to know the legal limits for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in Hawaii. The following table outlines the BAC limits for drivers in the state:
| Driver Type | BAC Limit |
|---|---|
| Regular Driver over 21 years old | 0.08% |
| Commercial Driver | 0.04% |
| Driver under 21 years old | 0.00% |
If a driver is caught with a BAC above the legal limit, they may face serious consequences, such as fines, license suspension, or even jail time. It's important for adults to understand these limits and to always drink responsibly.
It's worth noting that BAC can vary depending on a person's weight, sex, and how much alcohol they consume. As a general rule, it's best to avoid drinking and driving altogether to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.
Open container law in Hawaii
Summary: Hawaii Open Container Laws
| Law | Details |
|---|---|
| State Open Container Law | It is illegal to have an open container of alcohol in a vehicle on a public highway or street. |
| Local Open Container Ordinances | Some cities and counties have their own open container laws that are stricter than state law. For example, Honolulu has an open container ban in designated "entertainment districts". |
| Penalties | Violators of Hawaii's state open container law can face fines from $100 to $1,000, depending on the number of prior offenses. In some cases, a violator may also face up to 30 days in jail. |
In summary, Hawaii's open container laws prohibit having an open container of alcohol in a vehicle on a public highway or street. Some local ordinances may also have stricter rules in designated areas. Violators can face fines and even jail time depending on the number of prior offenses.
Hawaii Liquor Sale Open Hours
| Island | Liquor Sale Open Hours |
|---|---|
| Oahu | Monday-Saturday: 6am-11pm, Sunday: 6am-10pm |
| Maui | Monday-Saturday: 6am-11pm, Sunday: 6am-10pm |
| Kauai | Monday-Saturday: 6am-11pm, Sunday: 6am-10pm |
| Hawaii | Monday-Saturday: 6am-12am, Sunday: 6am-10pm |
In Hawaii, liquor sale open hours vary by island. On Oahu, Maui, and Kauai, liquor can be purchased at retail stores from 6am to 11pm, Monday through Saturday, and from 6am to 10pm on Sundays. However, on the Big Island of Hawaii, liquor can be sold until midnight from Monday to Saturday, with the same 6am to 10pm sales hours on Sunday.
It's important to note that these hours apply to retail sales only. Bars and restaurants may have different hours for serving alcohol, so it's always a good idea to check with the establishment beforehand.
Additionally, it is illegal to sell or serve alcohol to anyone under the age of 21 in Hawaii. Any violations of liquor laws can result in fines, suspension or revocation of liquor licenses, and even criminal charges. It is important for adults to drink responsibly and follow all liquor laws to ensure the safety of themselves and others.