North Carolina § 20-138 - 2C. Possession of alcoholic beverages while operating a commercial motor vehicle.
Full text of North Carolina North Carolina General Statutes § 20-138 — 2C. Possession of alcoholic beverages while operating a commercial motor vehicle., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 20-138. 2C. Possession of alcoholic beverages while operating a commercial motor vehicle.
A person commits the offense of operating a commercial motor vehicle while possessing alcoholic beverages if the person drives a commercial motor vehicle, as defined in G.S. 20-4.01 (3d), upon any highway, any street, or any public vehicular area within the State while having an open or closed alcoholic beverage in the passenger area of the commercial motor vehicle. This section shall not apply to the driver of a commercial motor vehicle that is also an excursion passenger vehicle, a for-hire passenger vehicle, a common carrier of passengers, or a motor home, if the alcoholic beverage is in possession of a passenger or is in the passenger area of the vehicle. History (1999-330, s. 2.)
Source: official North Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About North Carolina § 20-138
What does North Carolina General Statutes § 20-138 cover?
Section 20-138 ("2C. Possession of alcoholic beverages while operating a commercial motor vehicle.") is part of the North Carolina General Statutes, the codified statutory law of North Carolina. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite North Carolina § 20-138?
A common citation format is "North Carolina General Statutes § 20-138" (North Carolina). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of North Carolina law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the North Carolina official source linked on this page or consult a licensed North Carolina attorney.
How does North Carolina § 20-138 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in North Carolina can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in North Carolina.