What is the BAC limit for commercial drivers in California?

In California, the legal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit for commercial drivers is 0.04%. This standard is established because commercial drivers operate vehicles that can be significantly larger and more complex than standard passenger vehicles, which may pose a greater risk to public safety if operated under the influence.

The stricter limit reflects the expectation that commercial drivers are responsible for the safety of their passengers and the general public. Therefore, a BAC level of 0.04% is determined to be the maximum allowable amount for these drivers.

It’s important to note that while the general legal limit for non-commercial drivers is 0.08%, the regulations for commercial drivers are more stringent to enhance safety. This ensures that those responsible for transporting goods or passengers maintain higher standards of fitness to drive.