Metabolism Calculator
Estimate how long until your BAC reaches zero. Enter your estimated BAC or drinks consumed and see a projected BAC timeline.
⚠️ Educational Tool Only — Never Drink and Drive
This calculator is for educational purposes only and provides estimates based on averages. Actual BAC depends on many individual factors. Never rely on a calculator to determine if you are safe to drive. If in doubt, don't drive. Call a rideshare, taxi, or designated driver.
Nothing speeds up this process.
Coffee, cold showers, food, and exercise do not lower your BAC. Only time allows your liver to metabolize alcohol. The average person eliminates about 0.015% BAC per hour. There are no shortcuts — plan ahead and arrange safe transportation.
⚠️ Educational Tool Only — Never Drink and Drive
This calculator is for educational purposes only and provides estimates based on averages. Actual BAC depends on many individual factors. Never rely on a calculator to determine if you are safe to drive. If in doubt, don't drive. Call a rideshare, taxi, or designated driver.
How It Works
The body eliminates alcohol at a relatively constant rate of approximately 0.015% BAC per hour (range: 0.010-0.020%). This is primarily driven by the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase in the liver. Time to zero = Current BAC / 0.015. The calculator also shows projected BAC at 30-minute intervals so you can see the decline over time. Note: nothing speeds up this process — not coffee, cold showers, food, or exercise. Only time reduces BAC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sober up faster?
No. The liver metabolizes alcohol at a fixed rate of about 0.015% BAC per hour. Coffee, cold showers, food, and exercise do not speed up alcohol metabolism. They may make you feel more alert, but your BAC and impairment remain the same. Only time reduces BAC.
How long does alcohol stay in your system?
Alcohol is detectable in blood for up to 12 hours, in urine for 12-24 hours (or up to 72 hours with EtG tests), in breath for up to 24 hours, and in hair for up to 90 days. Complete metabolism of a moderate amount of alcohol typically takes 6-10 hours.
Am I safe to drive when my BAC reaches 0.00%?
While a BAC of 0.00% means no measurable alcohol in your blood, residual impairment (fatigue, dehydration, poor sleep quality from alcohol) can still affect driving ability. If you drank heavily the night before, use caution even after your BAC reaches zero.
Why does metabolism rate vary between people?
Factors include: liver size and health, genetic variations in alcohol dehydrogenase enzymes, age, chronic alcohol use (which can increase metabolism rate), and certain medications. The 0.015% rate is an average — individual rates range from 0.010% to 0.020% per hour.