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How long does it take for alcohol to leave your system before driving?

After I’ve had a few drinks, I usually feel safe to drive after an hour, but I don’t know if that’s a long enough time to wait. I think I’m fine to hit the road because I don’t feel tipsy, but I don’t know how law enforcement decides if someone is drunk. How long do I have to wait for the alcohol to leave my system before I can drive?

avatar
Sara Brody · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
It’s great that you’re conscious of safety and following the rules of the road! It can take alcohol 12 to 24 hours to leave your system entirely.
That said, we always recommend having a game plan before you head out for the night if you know you will be drinking. For example, have a friend be a designated driver, have the number for a taxi cab company, or download a rideshare app.
As they say, buzzed driving is drunk driving and while you might think you feel fine, your judgment could be off. At a DUI stop, police will look for signs of intoxication and demand a breathalyzer if they suspect you have been drinking. Failing or denying to take a breathalyzer test will result in a
DUI traffic violation
and a possible
license suspension
.
It’s always best to avoid the consequences of a DUI, including hikes in your
car insurance
premium. But luckily,
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