Starting level and typical ranges
The starting level for this offense depends on another offense. Use the calculator above and enter that level when asked.
What changes the sentence
Each of these facts moves the offense level under §2D1.2. Adjustments that apply to every offense, such as role in the offense, obstruction, a guilty plea and criminal history, come after these.
| Fact | Effect | Rule |
|---|---|---|
| Did the offense involve a person under 18: Yes | at least level 26 | §2D1.2(a)(3) |
Important details
- The starting level is the greatest of four numbers: 2 plus the drug level for the amount tied to the protected place or person, 1 plus the drug level for all the drugs in the case, 26 if a person under 18 was involved, or 13 (§2D1.2(a)).
- This guideline applies only if the person was convicted of a drug crime near a protected location or involving an underage or pregnant individual (including an attempt or conspiracy to commit one), or stipulated to such a crime in a plea agreement (§2D1.2, note 1; §1B1.2(a)).
- Example from the manual: 5 grams of heroin sold near a protected place and 10 grams sold elsewhere. Two plus the level for 5 grams gives 14. One plus the level for all 15 grams gives 15. Level 15 is used (§2D1.2, note 1).
- The calculator does not apply mandatory minimum sentences set by statute for this offense. If the statute of conviction requires one and it is higher than the range shown, the minimum controls; check the statute or ask a lawyer.
Frequently asked questions
Is the calculator accurate for drug dealing near a school or involving a minor?
It follows §2D1.2 of the Guidelines Manual effective November 1, 2025. It passed 5 review rounds, each comparing every number, rule and label with the manual text, and its last round found nothing to correct. Those reviews were done with AI tools, not by lawyers, and it has not yet been reviewed by an attorney, so mistakes are possible. The guidelines are advisory, and a lawyer who knows the case can tell you what actually applies.
Related offenses
- Continuing Criminal EnterpriseRan a large, ongoing drug organizationVerified
- Using a Phone to Commit a Drug CrimeUsed a phone, the mail or the internet to commit a drug crimeVerified
- Drug ParaphernaliaSold or shipped drug paraphernaliaVerified
- Maintaining a Drug HouseKept or rented out a place used for making, selling or using drugsVerified
- Booby Traps on Federal PropertySet booby traps on federal land to protect a drug operationVerified
- Endangering Life While Making DrugsPut someone's life at risk while illegally making drugsVerified
- Listed Chemical OffensesHad, sold, imported or exported chemicals used to make drugsVerified
- Drug Manufacturing EquipmentHad, made, sold or shipped equipment or supplies for making drugsVerified