What are the laws about open containers in a vehicle?

In Washington, open containers of alcohol are not allowed in a vehicle, regardless of who is drinking it or whether the driver has been drinking. This applies to the driver, any passengers, and anyone else in the vehicle. The open alcohol container must be in the trunk, in an area of the vehicle not normally occupied by the driver or passengers, or be placed in a locked glove compartment, trunk, or other similar compartment. Additionally, evidence of a person drinking in the vehicle does not have to be an opened container. If the police see an unopened container of alcohol in the car or smell the odor of alcohol, they can decide that the vehicle contains opened containers and charge the driver or passengers with unlawful possession. It is also important to note that even if the driver is not drinking, it is illegal for them to knowingly transport people with open containers of alcohol. Also, it is illegal for people to drive with alcohol containers in the front seat of their vehicle. Violating these laws can result in fines, jail time, and the suspension of a driver’s license. Even if no one was drinking and the open container was completely out of reach of the driver and passengers, it is still illegal in Washington.

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What are the laws about open containers in a vehicle?

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