Car Insurance After a DUI (How to Find Cheap DUI Insurance Rates)
Car insurance after a DUI is costly and could increase by 41%. One DUI on your driving record could follow you for at least 3 years, which makes finding car insurance after a DUI harder to come by.
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Written by
Laura Berry |
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Reviewed by
Joel Ohman
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UPDATED: Nov 24, 2022
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
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UPDATED: Nov 24, 2022
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident car insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one car insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single company.
Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from top car companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
Table of Contents
- A DUI is going to hurt your finances through increased insurance rates, among other things
- Insurance rates after a DUI could see an increase of up to 41%
- SR-22 requirements vary by state, but an SR-22 is not insurance coverage, it is just proof of insurance
- Switching insurance providers may be the best way for you to get lower rates after a DUI conviction
Now what? It’s time to get serious.
Getting a driving under the influence (DUI) conviction is not a good thing — and that’s an understatement. The offense will remain on your driving record for a long time if not forever. You may be wondering if it’s even possible to get car insurance and how to go about finding it at an affordable rate.
One of the best ways to find better rates is by comparing quotes from not only your insurer, but other companies as well. You can do that right here by entering your ZIP code above.
We’ll help you navigate the process and give you the information you need to find required car insurance at the best rate.
Let’s start by giving you a heads up about how much you can expect your rates to increase after a DUI.
Looking for something specific? Jump to the subject you want right here:
Table of Contents
Can you still find a good rate after getting a DUI?
There will undoubtedly be an increase in your car insurance premiums after you tell your insurer that you have a DUI conviction. Insurance companies are all about managing risk. A DUI puts you at a greater risk for future claims, so you’re going to pay more.
Finding the best rate after getting a DUI can be a very complicated affair.
Nine percent of drivers involved in a fatal accident with a BAC over the legal limit of 0.08 percent had a previous DUI conviction.
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How much does a DUI raise your car insurance rates?
We’ve partnered with Quadrant Information Services to gather data related to DUI compared to other variables. The best way to save on your car insurance is always to compare rates from multiple providers and make sure what you are comparing is apples to apple.
This is never more important than after a DUI conviction when you’re sure to see your rates raise. Don’t assume the first or second you research will provide you with sufficient coverage and the cheapest rates after a DUI.
What is the average cost of coverage with a clean driving record vs. one with a DUI?
What does the average cost look like in a demographic?
| Demographics | Driving Record | Average of Geico | Average of Farmers | Average of Liberty Mutual | Average of Nationwide | Average of Progressive | Average of State Farm | Average of Travelers | Average of USAA | Average of American Family | Average of Allstate | Total Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Married 35-year old female | Average | $1,691.91 | $2,456.68 | $1,401.51 | $1,926.46 | $2,055.34 | $1,454.19 | $1,570.87 | $1,647.73 | $2,369.94 | $3,305.50 | $1,988.01 |
| Married 35-year old female | Clean record | $1,180.69 | $1,903.38 | $1,169.59 | $1,336.63 | $1,527.47 | $1,337.16 | $1,252.40 | $1,147.71 | $1,723.61 | $2,388.88 | $1,496.75 |
| Married 35-year old female | With 1 accident | $1,633.02 | $2,784.55 | $1,643.16 | $2,081.95 | $2,761.96 | $1,571.21 | $1,641.75 | $1,612.85 | $2,565.68 | $4,004.09 | $2,230.02 |
| Married 35-year old female | With 1 DUI | $2,577.38 | $2,675.36 | $1,460.81 | $2,609.65 | $1,797.33 | $1,454.18 | $1,808.73 | $2,441.06 | $3,134.80 | $3,718.36 | $2,367.77 |
| Married 35-year old female | With 1 speeding violation | $1,376.54 | $2,463.42 | $1,332.49 | $1,677.62 | $2,134.58 | $1,454.18 | $1,580.59 | $1,389.31 | $2,055.66 | $3,110.67 | $1,857.51 |
| Married 35-year old male | Average | $1,711.59 | $2,457.73 | $1,512.93 | $1,960.52 | $1,946.27 | $1,454.19 | $1,657.44 | $1,676.66 | $2,369.94 | $3,320.65 | $2,006.79 |
| Married 35-year old male | Clean record | $953.28 | $1,903.46 | $1,261.04 | $1,365.26 | $1,434.13 | $1,337.16 | $1,317.72 | $1,168.99 | $1,723.61 | $2,400.13 | $1,486.48 |
| Married 35-year old male | With 1 accident | $1,522.93 | $2,786.10 | $1,775.43 | $2,118.34 | $2,630.68 | $1,571.21 | $1,732.17 | $1,639.54 | $2,565.68 | $4,022.38 | $2,236.45 |
| Married 35-year old male | With 1 DUI | $2,818.16 | $2,677.11 | $1,577.51 | $2,646.05 | $1,694.67 | $1,454.18 | $1,912.36 | $2,483.49 | $3,134.80 | $3,735.15 | $2,413.35 |
| Married 35-year old male | With 1 speeding violation | $1,551.98 | $2,464.27 | $1,437.76 | $1,712.43 | $2,025.61 | $1,454.18 | $1,667.48 | $1,414.64 | $2,055.66 | $3,124.92 | $1,890.89 |
| Married 60-year old female | Average | $1,614.70 | $2,179.75 | $1,165.71 | $1,713.84 | $1,694.99 | $1,299.88 | $1,431.81 | $1,532.32 | $2,168.97 | $3,452.26 | $1,825.42 |
| Married 60-year old female | Clean record | $1,062.42 | $1,587.30 | $931.82 | $1,145.66 | $1,191.28 | $1,193.00 | $1,044.77 | $1,055.73 | $1,576.11 | $2,485.85 | $1,327.39 |
| Married 60-year old female | With 1 accident | $1,520.12 | $2,508.14 | $1,386.99 | $1,848.06 | $2,395.05 | $1,406.77 | $1,528.04 | $1,563.77 | $2,359.20 | $4,188.92 | $2,070.51 |
| Married 60-year old female | With 1 DUI | $2,585.30 | $2,424.27 | $1,233.90 | $2,375.75 | $1,435.85 | $1,299.88 | $1,685.06 | $2,233.77 | $2,861.92 | $3,887.32 | $2,202.30 |
| Married 60-year old female | With 1 speeding violation | $1,290.97 | $2,199.30 | $1,110.12 | $1,485.90 | $1,757.76 | $1,299.88 | $1,469.37 | $1,276.03 | $1,878.66 | $3,246.96 | $1,701.49 |
| Married 60-year old male | Average | $1,892.50 | $2,305.14 | $1,303.12 | $1,816.17 | $1,773.48 | $1,299.88 | $1,526.42 | $1,509.06 | $2,168.97 | $3,452.26 | $1,904.70 |
| Married 60-year old male | Clean record | $1,034.85 | $1,712.24 | $1,037.63 | $1,242.60 | $1,260.95 | $1,193.00 | $1,108.89 | $1,042.58 | $1,576.11 | $2,485.85 | $1,369.47 |
| Married 60-year old male | With 1 accident | $1,802.19 | $2,632.96 | $1,554.97 | $1,957.75 | $2,482.86 | $1,406.77 | $1,629.42 | $1,536.26 | $2,359.20 | $4,188.92 | $2,155.13 |
| Married 60-year old male | With 1 DUI | $2,998.99 | $2,550.17 | $1,380.95 | $2,485.44 | $1,511.81 | $1,299.88 | $1,800.76 | $2,198.59 | $2,861.92 | $3,887.32 | $2,297.58 |
| Married 60-year old male | With 1 speeding violation | $1,733.95 | $2,325.20 | $1,238.93 | $1,578.88 | $1,838.28 | $1,299.88 | $1,566.62 | $1,258.82 | $1,878.66 | $3,246.96 | $1,796.62 |
| Single 17-year old female | Average | $5,407.10 | $10,514.80 | $4,621.83 | $5,285.82 | $7,336.88 | $4,229.18 | $4,533.18 | $5,332.28 | $6,676.10 | $8,547.98 | $6,248.51 |
| Single 17-year old female | Clean record | $4,230.14 | $9,358.75 | $3,880.18 | $4,734.14 | $6,517.27 | $3,844.74 | $3,712.06 | $3,896.99 | $4,951.36 | $6,072.53 | $5,119.82 |
| Single 17-year old female | With 1 accident | $5,683.56 | $11,162.02 | $5,483.14 | $5,318.27 | $8,227.20 | $4,613.63 | $4,686.99 | $5,692.96 | $6,758.67 | $10,414.43 | $6,804.09 |
| Single 17-year old female | With 1 DUI | $6,874.14 | $10,968.48 | $4,774.06 | $5,951.07 | $6,920.94 | $4,229.17 | $5,265.18 | $7,059.16 | $9,635.66 | $9,684.51 | $7,136.24 |
| Single 17-year old female | With 1 speeding violation | $4,840.55 | $10,569.96 | $4,349.93 | $5,139.79 | $7,682.10 | $4,229.17 | $4,468.50 | $4,679.99 | $5,358.72 | $8,020.46 | $5,933.92 |
| Single 17-year old male | Average | $5,673.56 | $10,961.50 | $5,140.83 | $6,786.79 | $8,239.12 | $5,361.67 | $5,685.41 | $5,880.44 | $9,263.85 | $11,112.80 | $7,410.60 |
| Single 17-year old male | Clean record | $4,439.18 | $9,811.35 | $4,313.31 | $6,235.12 | $7,363.72 | $4,878.01 | $4,628.34 | $4,297.55 | $6,877.13 | $7,900.65 | $6,074.44 |
| Single 17-year old male | With 1 accident | $6,033.02 | $11,605.22 | $6,102.17 | $6,819.24 | $9,175.28 | $5,845.34 | $5,873.62 | $6,274.65 | $9,326.35 | $13,528.97 | $8,058.39 |
| Single 17-year old male | With 1 DUI | $7,167.03 | $11,412.25 | $5,311.57 | $7,452.05 | $7,798.98 | $5,361.66 | $6,646.86 | $7,788.64 | $13,406.94 | $12,590.84 | $8,493.68 |
| Single 17-year old male | With 1 speeding violation | $5,055.01 | $11,017.19 | $4,836.26 | $6,640.76 | $8,618.48 | $5,361.66 | $5,592.84 | $5,160.90 | $7,444.97 | $10,430.75 | $7,015.88 |
| Single 25-year old female | Average | $2,074.22 | $2,803.50 | $1,464.07 | $2,242.62 | $2,450.28 | $1,643.58 | $1,665.85 | $2,170.35 | $2,369.94 | $3,973.25 | $2,285.77 |
| Single 25-year old female | Clean record | $1,539.21 | $2,258.60 | $1,235.75 | $1,617.18 | $1,875.79 | $1,510.07 | $1,321.94 | $1,507.31 | $1,723.61 | $2,868.09 | $1,745.75 |
| Single 25-year old female | With 1 accident | $2,047.38 | $3,121.17 | $1,706.75 | $2,425.91 | $3,212.47 | $1,777.09 | $1,742.76 | $2,077.67 | $2,565.68 | $4,815.52 | $2,549.24 |
| Single 25-year old female | With 1 DUI | $2,898.00 | $3,011.43 | $1,519.87 | $2,953.60 | $2,177.24 | $1,643.58 | $1,921.65 | $3,264.61 | $3,134.80 | $4,470.66 | $2,699.54 |
| Single 25-year old female | With 1 speeding violation | $1,812.27 | $2,822.81 | $1,393.91 | $1,973.80 | $2,535.63 | $1,643.58 | $1,677.04 | $1,831.80 | $2,055.66 | $3,738.74 | $2,148.52 |
| Single 25-year old male | Average | $2,048.08 | $2,931.88 | $1,543.97 | $2,429.53 | $2,647.61 | $1,887.70 | $1,754.69 | $2,385.18 | $3,056.23 | $4,293.46 | $2,497.83 |
| Single 25-year old male | Clean record | $1,400.52 | $2,387.74 | $1,301.68 | $1,783.92 | $2,036.03 | $1,731.28 | $1,389.25 | $1,655.35 | $2,227.32 | $3,097.97 | $1,901.11 |
| Single 25-year old male | With 1 accident | $2,060.57 | $3,249.37 | $1,800.16 | $2,629.61 | $3,463.47 | $2,044.12 | $1,835.74 | $2,280.86 | $3,270.87 | $5,203.30 | $2,783.81 |
| Single 25-year old male | With 1 DUI | $2,885.10 | $3,139.82 | $1,604.69 | $3,157.31 | $2,357.60 | $1,887.70 | $2,027.23 | $3,591.49 | $4,066.64 | $4,832.67 | $2,955.03 |
| Single 25-year old male | With 1 speeding violation | $1,846.10 | $2,950.59 | $1,469.34 | $2,147.28 | $2,733.33 | $1,887.70 | $1,766.53 | $2,013.02 | $2,660.08 | $4,039.91 | $2,351.39 |
| Grand Total | Grand Average | $2,764.21 | $4,576.37 | $2,269.25 | $3,020.22 | $3,517.99 | $2,328.78 | $2,478.21 | $2,766.75 | $3,805.49 | $5,182.27 | $3,270.95 |
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What would DUI costs look like by company?
| Group | Driving Record | Average Annual Premium | Company Average Annual Premium | Difference Between Record and Company |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allstate | Clean record | $3,712.50 | $5,182.27 | -28.36% |
| Allstate | With 1 DUI | $5,850.85 | $5,182.27 | 12.90% |
| Allstate | With 1 accident | $6,295.82 | $5,182.27 | 21.49% |
| Allstate | With 1 speeding violation | $4,869.92 | $5,182.27 | -6.03% |
| American Family | Clean record | $2,797.36 | $3,805.49 | -26.49% |
| American Family | With 1 DUI | $5,279.69 | $3,805.49 | 38.74% |
| American Family | With 1 accident | $3,971.42 | $3,805.49 | 4.36% |
| American Family | With 1 speeding violation | $3,173.51 | $3,805.49 | -16.61% |
| Farmers | Clean record | $3,865.35 | $4,576.37 | -15.54% |
| Farmers | With 1 DUI | $4,857.36 | $4,576.37 | 6.14% |
| Farmers | With 1 accident | $4,981.19 | $4,576.37 | 8.85% |
| Farmers | With 1 speeding violation | $4,601.59 | $4,576.37 | 0.55% |
| Geico | Clean record | $1,980.04 | $2,764.21 | -28.37% |
| Geico | With 1 DUI | $3,850.51 | $2,764.21 | 39.30% |
| Geico | With 1 accident | $2,787.85 | $2,764.21 | 0.86% |
| Geico | With 1 speeding violation | $2,438.42 | $2,764.21 | -11.79% |
| Liberty Mutual | Clean record | $1,891.37 | $2,269.25 | -16.65% |
| Liberty Mutual | With 1 DUI | $2,357.92 | $2,269.25 | 3.91% |
| Liberty Mutual | With 1 accident | $2,681.59 | $2,269.25 | 18.17% |
| Liberty Mutual | With 1 speeding violation | $2,146.09 | $2,269.25 | -5.43% |
| Nationwide | Clean record | $2,432.56 | $3,020.22 | -19.46% |
| Nationwide | With 1 DUI | $3,703.87 | $3,020.22 | 22.64% |
| Nationwide | With 1 accident | $3,149.89 | $3,020.22 | 4.29% |
| Nationwide | With 1 speeding violation | $2,794.56 | $3,020.22 | -7.47% |
| Progressive | Clean record | $2,900.83 | $3,517.99 | -17.54% |
| Progressive | With 1 DUI | $3,211.80 | $3,517.99 | -8.70% |
| Progressive | With 1 accident | $4,293.62 | $3,517.99 | 22.05% |
| Progressive | With 1 speeding violation | $3,665.72 | $3,517.99 | 4.20% |
| State Farm | Clean record | $2,128.05 | $2,328.78 | -8.62% |
| State Farm | With 1 DUI | $2,328.78 | $2,328.78 | 0.00% |
| State Farm | With 1 accident | $2,529.52 | $2,328.78 | 8.62% |
| State Farm | With 1 speeding violation | $2,328.78 | $2,328.78 | 0.00% |
| Travelers | Clean record | $1,971.92 | $2,478.21 | -20.43% |
| Travelers | With 1 DUI | $2,883.48 | $2,478.21 | 16.35% |
| Travelers | With 1 accident | $2,583.81 | $2,478.21 | 4.26% |
| Travelers | With 1 speeding violation | $2,473.62 | $2,478.21 | -0.19% |
| USAA | Clean record | $1,971.53 | $2,766.75 | -28.74% |
| USAA | With 1 DUI | $3,882.60 | $2,766.75 | 40.33% |
| USAA | With 1 accident | $2,834.82 | $2,766.75 | 2.46% |
| USAA | With 1 speeding violation | $2,378.06 | $2,766.75 | -14.05% |
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More than ever, if you have a DUI it’s critical you compare rates from different providers to make sure you get the best protection you can afford.
How long does a DUI affect car insurance?
The answer here varies by state as well as by company. Usually, the effect of a DUI on insurance coincides with the look-back period in the state. Typically, car insurance rates are highest during the first three years after a DUI conviction. Years three through five post-DUI tend to see reduced car insurance rates.
We’ve shown you some actual quotes to compare above, but your situation is going to be different, and the quotes you receive may vary greatly from the ones our sample people received.
Comparing rate quotes for yourself is the best way to find the best rate. Right here on this page, we have a rate comparison tool that will allow you to receive many quotes at once without having to enter your information over and over at individual car insurance websites.
What is an SR-22 requirement?
An SR-22 is also called a certificate of financial responsibility. Depending on where you live, it may also be called an FR-44Â or FR-19.
When a person gets a DUI or commits another serious offense specified in state laws, they may be required to file a certificate of financial responsibility (SR-22, FR-44, FR-19).
The SR-22 is not insurance. It is simply a form filed BY the insurance company WITH the state.
The form must be filed with the state for the duration of your requirement. If the requirement is for three years, then the form will have to be filed for three years. An SR-22 form requires the insurance company who filed it to notify the state DMV if insurance coverage is dropped during the required period.
You will know if you have to file a certificate of financial responsibility. If you receive a DUI conviction, the requirement will be part of your penalty.
You may be able to stay with your current insurer if they are able and willing to file an SR-22. If not, you can choose a new provider who will.
You can most certainly change insurance companies while you have an SR-22 filed, but you must have new insurance in place with SR-22 filing before canceling your previous coverage.
The following states do not have a certificate of financial responsibility requirement:
- Delaware
- Kentucky
- Minnesota
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
All other states have a certificate of financial responsibility requirement. Typically, it’s required for three years, but it can vary between one and five years depending on the sate.
The fee to file the form varies but is around $25.
Could your coverage be cancelled after you receive a DUI?
It’s possible that your car insurance coverage could be canceled following a DUI conviction. There are some states that do not allow insurance companies to drop customers because of a DUI, but most states allow it. And it is likely you will be dropped where it’s allowed.
If that happens, you’re not without hope. There are likely other companies that will take on your higher risk.
If you have one non-injury DUI on your record, you will likely not have too much of a problem finding insurance from a major company. However, if you have multiple DUIs, you might come to an impasse with conventional insurance companies.
That’s where assigned risk pools come into play.
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What are risk insurance pools?
According to Investopedia:
Some drivers, however, have poor driving records and may not be able to obtain coverage because they present too much of a risk. Insurance regulators will require insurance companies to pool together and accept the assigned risk.
Some states’ high-risk pools require you to try to get insurance the normal way from several companies and then after you’re denied, you can apply for the state’s assigned risk pool.
You have to have car insurance to drive, and these pools are sometimes the only way high-risk drivers can fulfill these requirements.
What are the state laws associated with a DUI?
There are state-specific consequences, but some laws are universally recognized by each and every state. One of those laws that is key to our discussion is “implied consent.â€
Implied consent means that by using the road, the driver is implying that he or she consents to chemical testing when lawfully arrested for a DUI.
By refusing to be tested with a breathalyzer and/or a blood test, the motorist will face consequences similar to and maybe harsher than the penalty for a blood-or breath-confirmed DUI.
Another law adopted by each and every state is the blood alcohol content (BAC) level limit. If your BAC level is 0.08 percent or higher, you can get a DUI. But keep in mind that even if your BAC is lower than that, you can still face a DUI conviction if impaired driving can be proven.
Utah was the first state to adopt the 0.08 percent (from 1.0 percent) BAC limit in 1983, and they recently became the first state to set a new, lower, BAC limit of 0.05 percent, making it the strictest state in the U.S.
Underage drivers face zero-tolerance laws in all 50 states. Some states specify that an underage driver can be arrested for a DUI with any traceable level of alcohol in their blood, while others place the BAC limit at 0.02 percent. Finding car insurance for a minor with a DUI is very difficult.
Commercial Drivers: Can you lose your CDL?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established guidelines for commercial drivers that are stricter and carry heavier penalties than for non-commercial drivers.
Most states have adopted stricter guidelines for commercial drivers. While the BAC limit for standard drivers is 0.08 percent, the limit for commercial drivers is typically 0.04 percent.
A commercial driver who refuses a blood alcohol test essentially pleads guilty to a DUI under FMCSA rules.
A DUI conviction while driving commercially can often result in tougher penalties than when driving for personal use. During the period of time the driver’s license is suspended after a DUI, he or she will obviously not be allowed to drive commercially.
If a commercial driver is convicted of a DUI in their personal vehicle, they must report to their employer within 30 days. While the DUI doesn’t have a direct impact on the CDL license per se, it definitely will affect a person’s chances of driving for a living:
- A driver with a suspended license cannot drive personally or commercially
- A suspension issued while driving commercially is often longer than one issued while driving personally
- A driver with a DUI on his or her license will likely have a hard time securing employment
To sum it up, a DUI is not going to strip you of your CDL license, but license suspension penalties will apply, and securing work with a DUI on your record will be difficult. Try to find the best commercial car insurance companies might help you find a policy after getting a DUI.
Another group that has a different set of limitations is minors. Check out the BAC limits for minors next.
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What about a minor DUI charge?
According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD):
About a quarter of car crashes with teens involve an underage drinking driver.
The limits for BAC are lower for those under 21, since consuming alcohol under that age is illegal. Also, younger drivers are still gaining experience, and driving even with a low BAC could have deadly results.
Notice that you don’t always have to be “driving” to get a DUI. In many states, just being in “physical control” of the vehicle is enough for a DUI charge. Physical control could mean sitting in the car with keys in your pocket.
| State | Statute, Illegal Driving Activity, and BAC Limit | Use/Lose Law? | State | Statute, Illegal Driving Activity, and BAC Limit | Use/Lose Law? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Alabama Code § 32-5A-191: "Drive or be in actual physical control" BAC limit 0.02% or more" | Yes (Mandatory) | Missouri | Missouri Revised Statutes, Title XIX, § 302.505: "driving while intoxicated...with a blood alcohol content of two-hundredths of one percent or more by weight [0.02]." | Yes (Mandatory) |
| Alaska | Alaska Statutes § 28.35.280: "operates or drives a motor vehicle... after having consumed any quantity of alcohol." | No | Montana | Montana Title 61 § 61-8-410: "an alcohol concentration of 0.02 or more to drive or be in actual physical control of a vehicle upon ways of this state open to the public." | Yes (Mandatory) |
| Arizona | Arizona Revised Statutes § 4-244: "drive or be in physical control of a motor vehicle while there is any spirituous liquor in the person's body." | Yes (Discretionary) | Nebraska | Nebraska Revised Statutes, Chapter 60, § 60-6,211.01: "operate or be in the actual physical control of any motor vehicle...(w)hen such person has a concentration of two-hundredths of one gram or more." | Yes (Discretionary) |
| Arkansas | Arkansas Code § 5-65-303: "operates or is in actual physical control of a...motor vehicle while...[u]nder the influence of an alcoholic beverage or similar intoxicant; or [has] an alcohol concentration of [at least 0.02]" | Yes (Mandatory) | Nevada | Nevada Revised Statutes, Title 43, § 483.461: "concentration of alcohol of 0.02 or more." | Yes (Mandatory) |
| California | California Vehicle Code§ 23140: "0.05 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in his or her blood to drive a vehicle. | Yes (Mandatory) | New Hampshire | New Hampshire Statutes § 265-A:2: "drive or attempt to drive a vehicle upon any way or operate or attempt to operate an OHRV...[w]hile such person has an alcohol concentration...0.02 or more." | Yes (Discretionary) |
| Colorado | Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-1301: "drive a motor vehicle when the person's BAC...is at least 0.02 but not more than 0.05 at the time of driving or within two hours after driving..." NOTE: A BAC between 0.05 and 0.08 for any driver gives rise to the inference that the driver is impaired. | Yes (Mandatory) | New Jersey | New Jersey Statutes, Title 39 § 4-50.14: "operates a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.01% or more" | Yes (Mandatory) |
| Connecticut | Connecticut General Statutes § 14-227g: "operate a motor vehicle while the ration of alcohol in the blood of such person is two-hundredths of one percent [0.02] or more." | Yes (Mandatory) | New Mexico | New Mexico Statutes § 66-8-111: " driving a motor vehicle...while under the influence of intoxicating liquor...an alcohol concentration in the person's blood or breath of...two one hundredths or more [0.02]." | Yes (Discretionary) |
| Delaware | Delaware Code § 4177L: "drives, operates or has actual physical control of a vehicle...while consuming or after having consumed alcoholic liquor..." | Yes (Mandatory) | New York | New York Vehicle & Traffic Law § 1192-a: "operate a motor vehicle after having consumed alcohol...if such person has .02 of one per centum or more" | No |
| District of Columbia | District of Columbia Code § 25-1002: "purchase, attempt to purchase, possess, or drink an alcoholic beverage in the District." | Yes (Mandatory) | North Carolina | North Carolina General Statutes, Chapter 20, § 20-138.3: "drive a motor vehicle on a highway or public vehicular area while consuming alcohol or at any time while he has remaining in his body any alcohol." | Yes (Mandatory) |
| Florida | Florida Statutes § 322.2616: "blood-alcohol or breath-alcohol level of 0.02 or higher to drive or be in actual physical control of a motor vehicle." | Yes (Mandatory) | North Dakota | North Dakota Century Code § 39-20-03.1: "an alcohol concentration of at least two one-hundredths of one percent [0.02] by weight...driving or being in actual physical control of a vehicle..." | No |
| Georgia | Georgia Code § 40-6-391(k): "drive or be in actual physical control of any moving vehicle while the person's alcohol concentration is 0.02 grams or more." | Yes (Mandatory) | Ohio | Ohio Title XLV, § 4511.19: "operate any vehicle... if, at the time of the operation...[t]he person has a concentration of at least two-hundredths of one per cent [0.02]." | No |
| Hawaii | Hawaii Revised Statutes § 291E-64: "operate any vehicle with a measurable amount of alcohol." | Yes (Mandatory) | Oklahoma | Oklahoma Statutes § 47-11-906.4: "drive, operate, or be in actual physical control of a motor vehicle...who...[h]as any measurable quantity of alcohol in the person's blood or breath." | Yes (Mandatory) |
| Idaho | Idaho Statutes § 18-8004: "an alcohol concentration of at least 0.02 but less than 0.08...to drive or be in actual physical control of a motor vehicle..." | Yes (Mandatory) | Oregon | Oregon Revised Statutes § 813.130: "a blood alcohol content of...[a]ny amount." | Yes (Mandatory) |
| Illinois | Illinois Statutes, Chapter 625 § 5/11-501.8(c): "alcohol concentration of more than 0.00, may [lose their] privilege to operate a motor vehicle." | Yes (Mandatory) | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania Statutes§ 3802: "drive, operate or be in actual physical control of the movement of a vehicle after imbibing a sufficient amount of alcohol such that the alcohol concentration in the minor's blood or breath is 0.02% or higher." | Yes (Mandatory) |
| Indiana | Indiana Code § 9-30-5-8.5: "operates a vehicle with an alcohol concentration equivalent to at least two-hundredths (0.02) [BAC] but less than eight-hundredths (0.08) [BAC]." | No | Rhode Island | Rhode Island General Laws § 31-27-2.7: "blood alcohol concentration...at least two-hundredths of one percent (.02%)." | Yes (Mandatory) |
| Iowa | Iowa Code § 321J.2A: "operate a motor vehicle while having an alcohol concentration...of .02 or more." | Yes (Discretionary) | South Carolina | South Carolina Code of Laws § 56-1-286: "drives a motor vehicle and has an alcohol concentration oftwo one-hundredths of one percent [0.02] or more... | Yes (Mandatory) |
| Kansas | Kansas Statutes § 8-1567a: "operate or attempt to operate a vehicle in this state with a breath or blood alcohol content of .02 or greater." | Yes (Mandatory) | South Dakota | South Dakota Codified Laws § 32-23-21: "drive, operate, or be in actual physical control of any vehicle...[i]f there is physical evidence of 0.02 percent or more." | Yes (Discretionary) |
| Kentucky | Kentucky RevisedStatutes § 189A.010: "operate or be in physical control of a motor vehicle anywhere in this state...[h]aving an alcohol concentration of 0.02 or more" | No | Tennessee | Tennessee Code § 55-10-415: "drive or be in physical control of an automobile or other motor driven vehicle while...[t]he alcohol concentration in the person's blood is more than two-hundredths of one percent (0.02%)..." | Yes (Mandatory) |
| Louisiana | Louisiana RevisedStatutes, Title 14, § 98.6: "operating...any motor vehicle...when the operator's blood alcohol concentration is 0.02 percent or more." | Yes (Mandatory) | Texas | Texas Transportation Code § 521.342: "the introduction of alcohol into the body." | Yes (Mandatory) |
| Maine | Maine Revised Statutes§ 2472: "Operates a motor vehicle with an alcohol level of more than 0.00 grams per 100 milliliters of blood or 210 liters of breath." | No | Utah | Utah Code § 41-6a-517: "operate or be in actual physical control of a motor vehicle...if the person has any measurable controlled substance or metabolite of a controlled substance in the person's body." | Yes (Mandatory) |
| Maryland | Maryland Transportation Code § 16-113: "driving or attempting to drive a motor vehicle while having alcohol in the licensee's blood." | Yes (Discretionary) | Vermont | Vermont Statutes, Title 23, § 1216: "operates, attempts to operate, or is in actual physical control of a vehicle on a highway when the person's alcohol concentration is 0.02 or more" | No |
| Massachusetts | Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 90, § 24P: "a blood alcohol percentage of two one-hundredths [0.02] or greater." | Yes (Mandatory) | Virginia | Virginia Code § 18.2-266.1: " operate any motor vehicle after illegally consuming alcohol...with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.02 percent or more." | Yes (Mandatory) |
| Michigan | Michigan Compiled Laws, Chapter 257, § 257.625: "operate a vehicle...within this state if the person has any bodily alcohol content." | No | Washington | Washington Revised Code § 46.61.503: "driving or being in physical control of a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol...[a]n alcohol concentration of at least 0.02 but less than [0.08]." | Yes (Mandatory) |
| Minnesota | Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 60 § 169A.33: "drive, operate, or be in physical control of a motor vehicle while consuming alcoholic beverages, or after having consumed alcoholic beverages while there is physical evidence of the consumption present in the person's body." | No | West Virginia | West Virginia Code § 17C-5-2: "drives a vehicle...while he or she has an alcohol concentration in his or her blood of two hundredths of one percent or more [0.02], by weight]" | No |
| Mississippi | Mississippi Code, Title 63 § 63-11-30: "drive or otherwise operate a vehicle within this state if the person...[h]as an alcohol concentration [of] Two one-hundredths percent (.02%) or more" | Yes (Mandatory) | Wisconsin | Wisconsin Statutes § 346.63: "drive or operate a motor vehicle while he or she has an alcohol concentration of more than 0.0 but not more than 0.08." | Yes (Discretionary) |
| Wyoming | Wyoming Statutes § 31-5-234: "operate or be in actual physical control of a vehicle in this state with an alcohol concentration of two one-hundredths of one percent (0.02%) or more" | Yes (Mandatory) | |||
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What’s the difference between a DUI and a DWI?
There is really no difference.
Each state legislates impaired driving laws and names the offense. Most states label alcohol-impaired driving a “DUI,” but here are the other names and where they’re used:
- Driving After Imbibing (DIA) – Pennsylvania
- Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (DUII) – Oregon
- Driving While Impaired (DWI) – Minnesota, New Mexico, North Carolina
- Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) – Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, Oklahoma, Texas, Wisconsin
- Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence (OVI) – Ohio
- Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence of an Intoxicant (OVUII) – Hawaii
- Operating Under the Influence (OUI) – Anchorage (the state of Alaska issues DUIs), Maine, Massachusetts
- Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) – Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Rhode Island
While there may be differences in the nuances of a drunk driving offense in California where it’s called a DUI and Ohio where it’s called an OVI, there are also differences between a drunk driving offense in New Jersey and South Dakota where they’re both called a DUI.
Note: Colorado has a driving while ability impaired (DWAI) offense for BACs of 0.05 percent up to 0.08 percent. A BAC over 0.08 is called a “DUI per se.” A DUI in Colorado requires no blood alcohol test.
Understand that there are variations between all the states, and the differences are not necessarily related to the name of the charge. Learn about the difference between a DUI and a DWI for more information.
What is a look-back period?
The look-back period is the time frame in which a previous DUI will be looked at by anyone, be it the police or an insurance company. In Illinois, for example, that period is 10 years. If a person there got a DUI three years ago and then got arrested for a DUI again, it would be considered and penalized as a second offense.
If an Illinois resident got a DUI 15 years ago and then is arrested for a DUI again, that offense will be penalized as a first offense. Learn more about Illinois car insurance for more information.
The look-back period is also known as the washout period. After that time period has lapsed, insurance costs for you might decrease once again.
| State | Look-back Period/Washout Period | State | Look-back Period/Washout Period | State | Look-back Period/Washout Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 5 years | Louisiana | 10 years | Ohio | 10 years |
| Alaska | 15 years | Maine | 10 years | Oklahoma | 10 years |
| Arizona | 7 years | Maryland | unlimited/lifetime | Oregon | 10 years |
| Arkansas | 5 years | Massachusetts | unlimited/lifetime | Pennsylvania | 10 years |
| California | 10 years | Michigan | 7 years for 2nd offense, unlimited/lifetime for 3rd+ | Rhode Island | 5 years |
| Colorado | no official period | Minnesota | 10 years | South Carolina | 10 years |
| Connecticut | 10 years | Mississippi | 5 years | South Dakota | 10 years |
| Delaware | 10 years for 2nd offense, unlimited/lifetime for 3rd+ | Missouri | 5 years | Tennessee | 10 years |
| Florida | 10 year for 3rd offense, unlimited/lifetime for 4th+ | Montana | 10 years for 2nd offense, unlimited/lifetime for 3rd+ | Texas | unlimited/lifetime for sentencing; 5 years for 2nd+ when determining need for IID |
| Georgia | 10 years | Nebraska | 15 years | Utah | 10 years |
| Hawaii | 5 years | Nevada | 7 years | Vermont | unlimited/lifetime |
| Idaho | 10 years for DUI, 5 years for HBAC | New Hampshire | 10 years | Virginia | 10 years |
| Illinois | 10 years | New Jersey | 10 years | Washington | 7 years |
| Indiana | 5 years | New Mexico | unlimited/lifetime | West Virginia | 10 years |
| Iowa | 12 years | New York | 10 years for 2nd offense, 15 years for 3rd+ | Wisconsin | 10 years |
| Kansas | 10 years | North Carolina | 7 years | Wyoming | 10 years |
| Kentucky | 10 years | North Dakota | 7 years | Washington DC | 15 years |
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What criminal status is a DUI given?
Depending on which state you live in, the criminal status of a DUI conviction varies. In most states, a first DUI is a misdemeanor, although it’s an infraction in some states and a felony in others. Typically, the DUI offense turns into a felony if it’s repeated several times.
| First Offense | Penalty | Second Offense | Penalty | Third Offense | Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| License Revoked | 6 months | License Revoked | 1 year | License Revoked | 3 years |
| Jail Time | BAC over .20: 10 days BAC over .25: 15 days BAC over .30: 20 days up to 180 days | Jail Time | BAC below .20: 5 min BAC over .20: 10 days BAC over .25: 20 days up to 1 year | Jail Time | BAC under .20: 5 days min BAC over .20: 15 days BAC over .25: 25 days up to 1 year |
| Fine | up to $1,000 | Fine | up to $5,000 | Fine | up to $10,000 |
| Vehicle Impounded | No Law | Vehicle Impounded | No Law | Vehicle Impounded | No Law |
| DUI Program | Alcohol Diversion Program possible | DUI Program | Determined in Court | DUI Program | Determined in Court |
| Community Service | Determined in Court | Community Service | 30 days possible | Community Service | 30 days possible |
| Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device | Yes | Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device | Yes | Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device | Yes |
| Required to get License Reinstated | $98 min, SR22 insurance, and retake driver test | Required to get License Reinstated | $98 min, SR22 insurance, and retake driver test | Required to get License Reinstated | $98 min, SR22 insurance, and retake driver test |
| Probation | Determined in Court | Probation | Determined in Court | Probation | Determined in Court |
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Minnesota – 4th degree offense w/no aggravating factors is misdemeanor; 3rd degree offense w/one aggravating factor is gross misdemeanor; 2nd degree offense w/two aggravating factors is gross misdemeanor; 1st degree offense w/3+ aggravating factors is felony (Aggravating Factors: 1) any prior drunken driving offense 2) driving with BAC > 0.19 3) driving w/passenger
Check out these interesting state laws and penalties below. You really don’t want to get a DUI in Ohio! The Ohio DUI insurance laws are very strict.
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What are some state laws to take note of?
Below, we listed some variances that are unique to certain states.
Colorado
- DUI – Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of alcohol and drugs. No blood alcohol test is needed.
- DWAI – Driving while ability impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of alcohol and drugs. BAC limit over 0.05 and under 0.08.
- DUI per se – Operating a vehicle with a BAC of 0.08 percent or more.
We can’t bring up Colorado without talking about marijuana. According to Colorado’s state website…
Under Colorado law, drivers with five nanograms of active tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in their blood can be prosecuted for driving under the influence (DUI).
Law enforcement officers don’t have a breathalyzer-comparable device to test THC levels, so, often drug recognition experts (DREs) are called in to detect impairment level.
Ohio
In Ohio, all second and subsequent DUI offenders are required to use a bright yellow plate with red lettering. These “party plates,” also called, “scarlet letter plates” are required on every vehicle the offender intends to drive.
Utah
Utah, as of December 30, 2018, has the lowest BAC limit for a DUI in the country at 0.05 percent.
Alaska
In most circumstances, an Anchorage police officer will give the offender an OUI charge, while State Troopers will issue DUI charges to everyone in the state, including in Anchorage. Getting a DUI charge will also affect getting car insurance in Alaska.
North Carolina
| North Carolina DWI Categories | Level V (Least Serious) | Level IV | Level III | Level II |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina Penalties | up to $200, 24 hours-60 days jail OR with suspended sentence, 24 hours in jail, 24 hours community service or no driving for 30 days | up to $500, 48 hours-120 days jail OR with suspended sentence, 48 hours in jail, 48 hours community service or no driving for 60 days | up to $1000, 72 hours-6 months jail OR with suspended sentence, 72 hours in jail, 72 hours community service or no driving for 90 days | up to $2000, 7 days-1 year, minimum sentense cannot be suspended |
| Level I (Most Serious) | Habitual DWI/Felony DWI | All Offenders | Governor's DWI Initiaitve | Factors Involved in Sentencing |
| up to $4000, 30 days-2 years, minimum sentence cannot be suspended | 3 prior convictions in 7 years: minimum active jail term of 1 year - not suspendable. Offenders must attend substance abuse program while in jail or as condition of parole. | Must complete substance abuse assessment and comply with any recommended treatment as condition for restored license. | If person receives DWI charged while license is revoked for DWI, vehicle may be seized at time of arrest. If court convicts offender, judge will order vehicle to be forfeited and given to the school board to be used or sold for profit. | Grossly Aggravating Factors, Aggravating Factors, Mitigating Factors |
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Are there any penalties?
As with all things illegal, penalties accompany DUI convictions. There are tales of individuals, couples, and families being financially ruined because of the consequences of a DUI.
You might think that fines are all the monetary loss you will experience following a DUI conviction, but have you considered the financial toll having your license suspended will bring?
Add the extra transportation cost to the higher insurance premiums, and the financial impact is felt in a great way.
Fines
The fines are just the tip of the iceberg. According to a survey administered by NOLO, a first DUI costs an average of $6,500. And likely that’s a low estimate because included in the survey were people whose charges were dropped or who won their case.
Also, that $6,500 doesn’t take into account lost wages. The average rates do fluctuate a bit, so it’s best to see what all of the variables will be in order to better understand them.
| State | First Offense | Second Offense | Third and Subsequent Offenses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $500-$2000 +$100 for Impaired Drivers Trust Fund | $1000-$5000 +$100 for Impaired Drivers Trust Fund | Third - $2,000-$10,000 +$100 for Impaired Drivers Trust Fund Fourth - $4000-$10,000 |
| Alaska | $1500 minimum +$200 license reinstatement fee | $3000 minimum +$500 license reinstatement fee | Third - $4000 minimum Fourth - $10,000 |
| Arizona | $250 base fine | $500 base fine | $750 base fine |
| Arkansas | $150-$1000 | $400-$3000 | $900-$5000 |
| California | $390-$1000 | $390-$1000 | $390-$1000 |
| Colorado | $600-$1000 | $600-$1500 | $600-$1500 |
| Connecticut | $500-$1000 | $1000-$4000 | $2000-$8000 |
| Delaware | $500 | $750-$2500 | Third - $1,500 up to $5000 Fourth - up to $7000 Fifth and Sixth- up to $10,000 Seventh - up to $15,000 |
| Florida | $500-$1000; High BAC or minor in car, $1000-$2000 | $1000-$2000; High BAC or minor in car, $2000-$4000 | Third - more than 10 years from 2nd conviction - $2000-$5000; high BAC or minor in car - $4000 minimum Fourth - $2000 minimum |
| Georgia | $300-$1000 | $600-$1000 | $1000-$5000 |
| Hawaii | $150-$1000 +$25 to neurotrama special fund +$25 to trauma system special fund if court ordered | $500-$1500+$25 to neurotrama special fund+$50 to trauma system fund if court ordered; additional $500 if child in vehicle | $500-$2500+$25 to neurotrama special fund+$50 to trauma system fund if court ordered; additional $500 if child in vehicle |
| Idaho | no minimum up to $1000 | no minimum up to $2000 | no minimum up to $5000 |
| Illinois | $500 to $2500 | $1250 to $2500 | $2500 up to $25,000 |
| Indiana | $500 to $5000 | no minimum up to $10,000 | no minimum up to $10,000 |
| Iowa | $625-$1250 OR community service | $1875-$6250 | $3125-$9375 |
| Kansas | $500-$1000 | $1000-$1500 | Third - $1500-$2500 Fourth - $2500 |
| Kentucky | $200-$500 | $350-$500 | $500-$1000 |
| Louisiana | $300-$1000 +$100 reinstatement fee | $750-$1000 +$200 reinstatement fee | Third - $2000 +$300 reinstatement fee Fourth - $5000 +$300 reinstatement fee |
| Maine | $500 | $700 minimum | Third - $1100 minimum Fourth - $2100 minimum |
| Maryland | no minimum to $1000 | no minimum to $2,000 | no minimum to $3,000 |
| Massachusetts | $500-$5000 | $600-$10000 | Third - $1000-$15,000 Fourth - $1500-$25,000 Fifth - $2000-$50,000 |
| Michigan | $100-$500 | $200-$1000 +$1000 driver responsibility fee | $500-$5000 +$1000 driver responsibility fee |
| Minnesota | $1,000 | $3,000 | Third - $3,000 minimum Fourth - if within 10 years, $14000 |
| Mississippi | $250-$1000 | 2nd in 5 years: $600-$1500 | 3rd in 5 years: $2000-$5000 |
| Missouri | no minimum | no minimum | no minimum |
| Montana | $600-$1000 +$200 reinstatement fee | $1200-$2000 | $2500-$5000 |
| Nebraska | no minimum, but up to $500 | no minimum, but up to $1000 | Third - no minimum, but up to $1,000 Fourth - up to $10,000 Fifth - up to $25000 |
| Nevada | $400-$1000 | $750-$1000 | Third in seven years - $2000-$5000 |
| New Hampshire | $500 minimum | $750 minimum | Third - $750 minimum Fourth - $930 minimum |
| New Jersey | BAC 0.08-0.99: $250-$400; BAC 0.10-0.14: $300-$500; BAC 0.15+: $300-$500; BAC 0.08+ $3505 in fees and surcharges | $500-$1000; $3555 in fees and surcharges | Third in 10 years of 2nd: $1000 +$5055 in fees and surcharges |
| New Mexico | No minimum | $500-$1000 | Third - $750-$1000 Fourth - up tp $5000 |
| New York | $500-$1000; ADWI: $1000-$2500 | Second in 10 years: $1000-$5000; ADWI: $1000-$5000 | Third in 10 years: $2000-$10000; ADWI: $2000-$10000 |
| North Carolina | no minimum | no minimum | no minimum |
| North Dakota | $500 minimum | $600 minimum | $2,000 minimum |
| Ohio | $250-$1075; license reinstatement fee $475 | $350-$1625 +license reinstatement fee of $475 | $350-$2750 +$475 license reinstatement fee |
| Oklahoma | no minimum, but up to $1000 | no minimum, but up to $2500 | no minimum, but up to $5000 |
| Oregon | minimum $1000 for BAC; minimum $2000 for HBAC; up to $10,000 if child in car | minimum $1500; HBAC minimum $2000; up to $10,000 if child in car | $2000 minimum, additional $2000 for HBAC |
| Pennsylvania | $300 | $300-$2500 | $500-$5000 |
| Rhode Island | $100-$500 +$500 to hwy assessment fund | $400 | $400-$5000 +$500 to hwy assessment fund |
| South Carolina | $400 minimum ($992 with assessments and surcharges) | $2100-$5,100 ($10,744.50 with assessments and surcharges) | $3800 - $6300 ($13,234.50 with assessments and surcharges) |
| South Dakota | $2000 minimum | $2000 minimum | Third - $4000 Fourth - $20,000 |
| Tennessee | $350-$1500 | $600-$10,000 | Third - $1100-$10,000 Fourth - $3000-$15,000 |
| Texas | no minimum up to $2000 +conviction based surcharge of $1000 for three consecutive years; if HBAC, surcharge is $1500 for three consecutive years | no minimum up to $4000 +conviction based surcharge of $1500 for three consecutive years; HBAC surcharge $2000 for three consecutive years | no minimum up to $10,000 |
| Utah | $1310 minimum | $1560 minimum | $2,850 up to $5000 |
| Vermont | no minimum up to $700 | no minimum up to $1500 | no minimum up to $2,500 |
| Virginia | $250 mandatory minimum | $500 mandatory minimum | $1000 mandatory minimum |
| Washington | $865.50-$5000 | $1195.50-$5000 | $2045.50-$5000 |
| West Virginia | $100-$500 | $1000-$3000 | $3000-$5000 |
| Wisconsin | $150-$300 +$365 OWI surcharge | 2nd in 10 years: $350-$1100 +$365 surcharge. 2nd in 11+ years: $150-$300 +$365 surcharge | $600-$2000 +$365 OWI surcharge |
| Wyoming | no minimum, but up to $750 | $250-$750 | Third - $250-$3000 Fourth - up to $10,000 |
| Washington DC | up to $300 | $1000-$5000 | $2000-$10000 |
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Imprisonment
This is one penalty that is a possibility, but likely won’t happen, especially with a first offense. You could be imprisoned for a first DUI, but it isn’t standard. Subsequent DUIs often carry a minimum jail sentence, in which case, you will definitely serve time, which would then go on your criminal record. Don’t be surprised if the average rates you’re expected to pay for insurance increases after a sentence.
| State | 1st Offense | 2nd Offense | 3rd Offense | 4th and Subsequent Offenses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | up to 1 yr in municipal or county jail (no minimum) | 48 consecutive hours, up to 1 year, or not less than 20 days community service | 60 days-1 year in municipal or county jail | 1-10 years |
| Alaska | mandatory minimum 72 consecutive hours | mandatory 20 day minimum | mandatory 60 day minimum | mandatory 120 minimum |
| Arizona | minimum 1-10 days | minimum 30-90 days | minimum 4 months | minimum 4 months |
| Arkansas | 24 hours-1 year, or community service | 7 days-1 year | 90 days-1 year | 1-6 years |
| California | 96 hours-6 months, including 48 continuous hours | 96 hours-6 months, including 48 continuous hours | 120 days-1 year, including 48 continuous hours | 120 days-1 year, including 48 continuous hours |
| Colorado | 5 days-1 year | 10 days-1 year | 60 days-1 year | 60 days-1 year |
| Connecticut | Either 1) up to 6 months w/mandatory 2 day minimum or 2) up to 6 months suspended with probation requiring 100 hours community service | up to 2 years with mandatory minimum of 120 consecutive days and probation with 100 hours community service | up to 3 years. mandatory minimum of one year and probation with 100 hours community service | up to 3 years. mandatory minimum of one year and probation with 100 hours community service |
| Delaware | no minimum | minimum 60 days up to 18 months | not less than 1 year and not more than 2 years | Fourth - not less than 2 years and not more than 5 years Fifth - not less than 3 years not more than 5 years Sixth - not less than 4 years and not more than 8 years Seventh - not less than 5 years nor more than 15 years |
| Florida | 8 hrs minimum, but not more than 6 months; with high BAC or minor in car, not more than 9 months; for a first conviction, total period of probabation and incarceration may not exceed 1 year | not more than 9 months; with high BAC or minor in car, not more than 12 months; If 2nd in 5 years, mandatory imprisonment at least 10 days with 48 hours consecuative confinemen | if 3rd in 10 years, mandatory 30 days with 48 consecutive hours; if 3rd in over 10 years, imprisonment for not more than 12 months | not more than 5 years |
| Georgia | 10 days-12 months, can all be suspended at judge's discretion unless HBAC, then all but 24 hours can be suspended | 90 days-12 months; mandatory 72 hours for 2nd in 10 years, otherwise can be probated | 120 days-12 months; sentence can be probated unless 3rd in 10 years, then 15 days mandatory incarceration | 1-5 years, sentence can be probated to 90 days mandatory minimum |
| Hawaii | 48 hours-5 days | minimum 240 community service hours OR 5-30 with 48 consecutive hours | 10-30 days, 48 hours served consecutively | 10-30 days, 48 hours served consecutively |
| Idaho | no minimum up to 6 months | mandatory 10 days up to 1 year | 30 days-5 years | 30 days-5 years |
| Illinois | no minimum up to 1 year | mandatory 5 days up to 1 year OR 240 hours community service | 90 days minimum. Possible 3-7 years | Fourth - possible 4-15 years Fifth - possible 6-30 years |
| Indiana | no minimum up to 1 year | 5 days-3 years AND/OR community service | 10 days-3 years AND/OR community service | 10 days-3 years AND/OR community service |
| Iowa | 48 hours-1 year; minimum 48 hours may be served in OWI program with law enforcement security | 7 days-2 years | 30 days-5 years | 30 days-5 years |
| Kansas | 48 hours mandatory OR 100 hours community service | 90 days-1 year | 90 days - 1 year | 90 days-1 year |
| Kentucky | 2-30 days | 7 days-6 months | 30 days-12 months | 120 day w/o probation minimum |
| Louisiana | 48 hours in jail + up to 6 months OR fine; up to 2 years probation | 48 hours+ | 1-5 years w/ or w/o hard labor | 10-30 years, two years served w/o suspension or parole + home incarceration for at least 1 year |
| Maine | none; 48 hours minimum with aggravating factors | 7 days minimum | 30 days minimum | 6 months minimum |
| Maryland | no minimum up to 1 year | 5 days-2 years | no minimum up to 3 years | no minimum up to 3 years |
| Massachusetts | no minimum up to 2.5 years | 30 days-2.5 years | 180 days-5 years | Fourth - 2-5 years Fifth - 2.5 years-5 years |
| Michigan | 5 days-1 year consecutive jail time OR 30-90 community service | 5 days-1 year consecutive jail time AND 30-90 community service | 1-5 years | 1-5 years |
| Minnesota | no minimum up to 90 days | mandatory 30 days incarceration, 48 hours must be served in jail/workhouseup to 1 year | 90 days incarceration at least 30 days served consecuatively in jail/workhouse | Fourth - If within 10 years, 90 days up to seven years, at least 30 days served consecutively in local jail/workhouse Fifth - 1 year incarceration, at least 60 days served consecutively in local jail/workhouse |
| Mississippi | no minimum. 48 hours OR attend victim impact panel | Within 5 years: 5 days-1 year AND 10 days-1 year community service | Within 5 years: 1-5 years | Within 5 years: 1-5 years |
| Missouri | no minimum | no minimum | no minimum | no minimum |
| Montana | 24 hours-6 months | 7 days-1 year | 30 days-1 year | 30 days-1 year |
| Nebraska | 7-60 days probation/suspended sentence: 10 days in jail or 240 hours commuhnity service | 30-180 days; probation/suspended sentence: 10 days in jail or 240 hours community service | 90 days-1 year; probation/suspended sentence: 30 days | 180 days-3 years; probation/suspended sentence: 90 days in jail |
| Nevada | 2 days-6 months OR 96 hours community service | 10 days-6 months of jail or residential confinement | Within 7 years: 1-6 years | Within 7 years: 1-6 years |
| New Hampshire | no minimum | mandatory minimum 30 days-1 year | 180 days-1 year | 30 days-7 years, minimum 6 months deferred jail time |
| New Jersey | minimum 12 hrs.; BAC 0.08+ up to 30 days | Within 10 years: 48 hours-90 days | Within 10 years of 2nd: 180 days | Within 10 years of 2nd: 180 days |
| New Mexico | no minimum, but up to 90 days; High BAC additional 2 days jail mandatory | 96 hours - 364 days; High BAC additional 4 days jail mandatory | 30-364 days; High BAC additional 60 days jail mandatory | Fourth - 6 months-18 months Fifth - 1-2 years Sixth - 18-30 months Seventh - 2-3 years |
| New York | no minimum up to 1 year; ADWI: up to 1 year | 5 days minimum Within 10 years - up to 4 years ADWI - up to 4 years | 10 days minimum Within 10 years - up to 7 years ADWI - up to 7 years | 10 days minimum Within 10 years - up to 7 years ADWI - up to 7 years |
| North Carolina | 1 day minimum | 4 days minimum | 14 days-2 years | 12 months minimum |
| North Dakota | no minimum | 10 days minimum | 120 days minimum | 120 days minimum |
| Ohio | 3 days jail or 3 days DIP - 6 months (If court grants unrestricted driving privilege with IID, mandatory jail time suspended.) | 10 days jail or 5 days jail and 18 days house arrest with monitoring - 6 months incarceration | 30 days jail OR 15 days jail and 55 days house arrest with monitoring - 1 year incarceration | 30 days jail OR 15 days jail and 55 days house arrest with monitoring - 1 year incarceration |
| Oklahoma | 5 days-1 year | 1-5 years | 1-10 years | 1-10 years |
| Oregon | 2 days-1 year OR 80 hours community service | minimum 2 days up to 1 year | 90 days minimum | 90 days minimum |
| Pennsylvania | no minimum up to 6 months probation | 5 days-6 months | 10 days-2 years | 10 days-2 years |
| Rhode Island | no minimum up to 1 year or 10-60 hours community service | 10 days-1 year | 1-5 years | 1-5 years |
| South Carolina | 48 hours-30 days | 5 days-1 year | 60 days-3 years | 1-5 years |
| South Dakota | no minimum up to 1 year | no minimum up to 120 days | no minimum up to 2 years | up to 10 years |
| Tennessee | 48 hours-11 months HBAC - minimum 7 consecutive days | 45 days-11 months | 120 days-11 months | 1 year with minimum 150 consecutive days served |
| Texas | 72 hours-6 months | 30 days-1 year | 2-10 years | 2-10 years |
| Utah | minimum 48 consecutive hours OR 48 hours community service OR home confinement | minimum 240 consecutive hours OR 240 hours community service OR home confinement | 62 days-5 years | 62 days-5 years |
| Vermont | no minimum up to 2 years | minimum 60 hours jail OR 60 hours community service up to 2 years imprisonment | no minimum up to 5 years, min 1000 consecutive jail hours OR 400 hours community service | no minimum up to 5 years, min 1000 consecutive jail hours OR 400 hours community service |
| Virginia | up to 1 year; if BAC 0.15-0.19, mandatory 5 days; if BAC 0.20+, mandatory 20 days | up to 1 year; within 5 years 1st offense, mandatory 20 day minimum; within 10 years 1st offense, mandatory 10 additional days; if BAC 0.20+ mandatory 20 additional days | 1-5 years; if within 5 years of 1st offense, 6 month mandatory min, if within 10 years of 1st offense, 90 day mandatory minimum | 1-5 years; if within 5 years of 1st offense, 6 month mandatory min, if within 10 years of 1st offense, 90 day mandatory minimum |
| Washington | 24 consecutive hours-365 days OR 15 days electronic home monitoring | 30 days-365 days, 60 days mandatory electronic home monitoring | 90 days-365 days, 120 days mandatory electronic home monitoring | 90 days-365 days, 120 days mandatory electronic home monitoring |
| West Virginia | no minimum up to 6 months | 6-12 months | 1-3 years | 1-3 years |
| Wisconsin | none, unless passenger under 16 in vehicle: 5 days - 6 months | 2nd in 10 years: 5 days-6 months, safe streets options: 5-7 days; passenger under 16 in vehicle: 5 days-6 months. 2nd in 11+ years, none. | 45 day-1 year; safer streets option: 14 days-1 year | 45 day-1 year; safer streets option: 14 days-1 year |
| Wyoming | no minimum up to 6 months | 7 days-6 months | 30 days-6 months | up to 2 years |
| Washington DC | No minimum up to 90 days. if BAC 0.20-0.25: mandatory 5 days. If BAC 0.25+: mandatory 10 days | up to 1 year with 5 mandatory days or 30 days community service. If BAC 0.20-0.25: mandatory 10 days. If BAC 0.25+: mandatory 20 days | up to 1 year with 5 mandatory days or 30 days community service. If BAC 0.20-0.25: mandatory 15 days. If BAC 0.25+: mandatory 25 days | up to 1 year with 5 mandatory days or 30 days community service. If BAC 0.20-0.25: mandatory 15 days. If BAC 0.25+: mandatory 25 days |
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Can you get your license suspended?Â
This penalty should be one of the greatest deterrents to drinking and driving. For most Americans, the ability to drive is vital for normal daily activities. You’ll have to rethink your errands, commute, and activities if you have your licenses suspended and can’t drive. We’ve already mentioned the fact that there are rate increases if you get a DUI, but that doesn’t take into consideration what would happen to the rest of your life. Everything would change, and not necessarily for the better.
| State | 1st Offense | 2nd Offense | 3rd Offense | 4th and Subsequent Offenses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | mandatory 90 days | 1 year | 3 years | 5 years |
| Alaska | 90 days | 1 year | 3 years | 5 years |
| Arizona | 90-360 days | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
| Arkansas | 6 months | 2nd offense in 5 years - 2 year revocation | 3rd offense in 5 years - 30 month revocation | 4 years |
| California | 4 months | 1 year if offense in 10 years of previous | 18 months if offense within 10 years of previous | 1 year if offense in 10 years of previous |
| Colorado | 9 months | 1 year | 2 years | 2 years |
| Connecticut | 45 days +1 year with IID | 45 days +3 years with IID, first year limited to travel to and from work, school and substance abuse treatment program, IID service center or probation appointment | license revoked, but eligible for reinstatement after two years. if reinstated, must only drive IID vehicle. This requirement may be lifted after 15 years by DMV commissioner. | license revoked, but eligible for reinstatement after two years. if reinstated, must only drive IID vehicle. This requirement may be lifted after 15 years by DMV commissioner. |
| Delaware | 12 months | 2 years | 24 months | 60 months |
| Florida | 180 days min up to 1 year | 2nd in 5 years - minimum 5-year revocation; 2nd in 6+ years, minimum 180 days up to 1 year revocation | 3rd in 10 years of 2nd conviction - minimum 10-year revocation, may be eligible for hardship reinstatement after 2 years | mandatory permanent revocation with no hardship reinstatement allowed |
| Georgia | 120 days minimum up to 1 year | 3 years | 5 years | 5 years |
| Hawaii | 1 year | within 5 years: 18 months-2 years | within 5 years of prior two convictions, 2-year revocation | within 5 years of prior two convictions, 2-year revocation |
| Idaho | 90-180 days | within 10 years: 1 year mandatory suspension with no driving privileges of any kind | within 10 years: 1-5 years, the one mandatory year to start after release from confinement and with no driving privileges of any kind | within 10 years: 1-5 years, the one mandatory year to start after release from confinement and with no driving privileges of any kind |
| Illinois | 1 year | 5 year minimum for 2nd conviction in 20 years | minimum 10 years + suspension of vehicle registration | for life + suspension of vehicle registration |
| Indiana | 30 days-2 years OR probation with rehabilitation course | 180 days-2 years | 1-10 years | 1-10 years |
| Iowa | 180 days but may apply for temporary restricted license; if crash occurred or BAC > .10, must install IID | 2 years, not eligible for temporary restricted license for 45 days | 6 years, not eligible for temporary restricted license for 45 days | 6 years, not eligible for temporary restricted license for 45 days |
| Kansas | 30 day suspension then 330 day restriction | 1 year suspension then IID for 1 year | 1 year suspension then IID for 1 year | Fourth - 1 year suspension; court may revoke license plate or temporary registration for up to 1 year; after year is completed, IID for 1 year Fifth - Permanently |
| Kentucky | 30-120 days | 12-18 month suspension | 24-36 months | 60 month suspension |
| Louisiana | 1 year High BAC - 2 years | 2 years High BAC - 4 years | 3 years | vehicle seized |
| Maine | 150 days minimum w/ or w/o aggravating factors | 3 years minimum | 6 years minimum | 8 years minimum |
| Maryland | 6 months | 1 year; if 2 convictions w/in 5 years, IID program mandatory | 18 months up to lifetime | 18 months up to lifetime |
| Massachusetts | 1 year after date of conviction; may apply for work/education provisional license after 3 months | 2 years after date of conviction; may apply for work/education provisional license after 1 year; may apply for hardship license after 18 months | 8 years after date of conviction; may apply for work/education provisional license after 2 year; may apply for hardship license after 4 years | Fourth - 10 years after date of conviction; may apply for work/education provisional license after 5 years; may apply for hardship license after 8 years Fifth - permanent |
| Michigan | mandatory 6 months; may be eligible for restricted license after 30 days | 1 year minimum OR 5 year min if prior revocation in 7 years | minimum 1 year OR minimum 5 years if prior revocation in last 7 years | minimum 1 year OR minimum 5 years if prior revocation in last 7 years |
| Minnesota | revoked for 90 days (180 days if under 21) | 2nd in 10 years: revoked 1 year | 3rd offense on record: revoked 1 year; 3rd in 10 years, DL cancelled and denied for 3 years | 4th on record: cancelled and revoked for 3 years; 4th in 10 years: cancelled and revoked for 4 years 5th on record: DL cancelled and revoked for 6 years; 5th in 10 years: cancelled and revoked for 6 years |
| Mississippi | 90 days +completion of alcohol saftey program unless received IID license | 2nd in 5 years: 1 year unless traded license for IID only llicense | 3rd in 5 years: 3 years after release from incarceration and only then on IID license for 3 years | 3rd in 5 years: 3 years after release from incarceration and only then on IID license for 3 years |
| Missouri | 30 day suspension, may be eligible for restricted driving privilege | 1 year revocation due to accumulation of points; if 2nd in 5 years, may receive 5 year denial | 10 year license denial | 10 year license denial |
| Montana | 6 month suspension | 1 year suspension | 1 year suspension | 1 year suspension |
| Nebraska | 2 month minimum; may be served with IID upon court order. If given probation or suspended sentence: 60 day DL revocation | 18 months; 45 days before eligible for IID | 15 years; probation/suspended sentence: 2-15 years, 45 days before elegible for IID | 15 years; probation/suspended sentence: 45 days before elegible for IID |
| Nevada | 90 days; elegible for restricted license after half of revocation period | 1 year, not elegible for restricted license | 3rd in 7 years: 3 years, restricted license may be issued | if 4th in 7 years, same as 3rd |
| New Hampshire | 9 months - 6 years, 6 months can be suspended if enrolled in 20 hour Impaired Driver Intervention Program | 3 year min | lifetime; may be reinstated after 5 years | lifetime, may be reinstated after 7 years |
| New Jersey | BAC 0.08-0.99: 3 months; BAC 0.10-0.14: 7 months-1 year; BAC 0.15+: 7 months - 1year, IID during suspension and 6 months - 1 year following restoration | 2nd in 10 years: 2 years; IID during license suspension and 1-3 years after restoration | 3rd in 10 years of 2nd: 10 years; IID during suspension and 1-3 years after restoration | 4th in 10 years of 2nd: 10 years; IID during suspension and 1-3 years after restoration |
| New Mexico | 6 months-1 year (if under 21, 1 year) | 2 year revocation | 3 year revocation | lifetime revocation with 5-year court review |
| New York | revoked for at least 6 months; ADWI: 1 year minimum | 2nd in 10 years: 1 year min; ADWI: 18 months minimum | 3rd in 10 years: 1 year min; ADWI: 18 months minimum | Fourth in 10 years: 1 year min; ADWI: 18 months minimum |
| North Carolina | 60 day suspension, 1 year revocation | 2nd in 3 years: 4 year revocation; 1 year if 2nd in 4+ years | 1 year minimum, but permanent revocation possible; IID required for 7 years if restoration granted | Permanent revocation; IID required for 7 years if restoration granted |
| North Dakota | 91 days minimum | 1 year minimum | 2 years minimum | 2 years minimum |
| Ohio | 6 months minimum, but up to 3 years; 15 days before elegible for restricted driving privileges with IID | 1-7 years; no driving privileges for 45 days | 1-12 years; no driving privileges for 180 days | Felony charges |
| Oklahoma | 1 month up to 6 months | 6 months minimum | 1-3 years | 1-3 years |
| Oregon | 1 year | 3 years | mandatory lifetime, not eligible for hardship license, may apply for reinstatement after 10 years | felony |
| Pennsylvania | no minimum | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
| Rhode Island | 60 days-18 months | 1-2 years | 2-3 years | 2-3 years |
| South Carolina | 6 months | 1 year | minimum 2 years. 4 years if within 5 years of 1st offense | permanent |
| South Dakota | 30 days - 1 year | 6 months minimum; restricted permit eligible | 1 year from date of imprisonment release; restricted permit eligible | Fourth - 2 years, restricted permit eligible Fifth - minimum 3 years |
| Tennessee | 1 year | 2 years, restricted license available after 1 year | 6-10 years and no restricted license available | 5 years and no restricted license available |
| Texas | 90 days - 1 year, may be eligible for harship permit | 180 days-2 years, may be eligible for hardship permit | 180 days-2 years, may be eligible for hardship permit | 180 days-2 years, may be eligible for hardship permit |
| Utah | 120 days; alcohol restricted driving privilege 2 years | 2 years; alcohol restricted driving privilege 10 years | 2 years, alcohol restricted driving privilege for life | 2 years, alcohol restricted driving privilege for life |
| Vermont | 90 days | 18 months | lifetime, may be restored after 3 years total abstinence from drugs and alcohol | lifetime, may be restored after 3 years total abstinence from drugs and alcohol |
| Virginia | 1 year, restricted permit possible | 3 years, restricted permit possible | indefinite, but can petition court after 5 years | indefinite, but can petition court after 5 years |
| Washington | 90 days | 2 years | 3 years | 3 years |
| West Virginia | 15 days | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
| Wisconsin | 6-9 months. If 2nd in 10 years: occupational license can be applied for in 45 days. If 2nd in 11+ years: occupational license can apply immediately. | 2nd in 10 years, 12-18 months; 2nd in 11+ years, 6-9 months | 2-3 years | 2-3 years |
| Wyoming | 90 days | 1 year | 3 years | 3 years |
| Washington DC | 6 months | 1 year | 2 years | 2 years |
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Will you need to enroll in programs because of a DUI?
Often, part of the penalty for a DUI conviction is education and assessment and/or treatment. The point of these required programs is to help the attendee not repeat the offense. If you want the lowest rates of coverage that are going to be available to you, chances are you’re going to have to show some proof of education.
| Education, Treatment, and Assessment Requirements Following a DUI by State | Alcohol Education | Treatment/Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | yes | yes |
| Alaska | yes | yes |
| Arizona | yes | yes |
| Arkansas | yes | yes |
| California | yes | yes (no if under 21) |
| Colorado | yes | yes |
| Connecticut | yes | yes |
| Delaware | yes | yes |
| Florida | yes | yes |
| Georgia | yes | yes |
| Hawaii | yes | yes |
| Idaho | no | no |
| Illinois | possible | possible |
| Indiana | no | no |
| Iowa | yes | no |
| Kansas | yes or treatment | yes or treatment |
| Kentucky | yes | yes |
| Louisiana | now | yes |
| Maine | yes | yes |
| Maryland | yes | yes |
| Massachusetts | yes | yes |
| Michigan | yes | yes |
| Minnesota | no | yes after 3rd offense |
| Mississippi | yes | yes |
| Missouri | yes | yes |
| Montana | yes | yes |
| Nebraska | no | no |
| Nevada | yes - in some circumstances | yes - in some circumstances |
| New Hampshire | yes | yes |
| New Jersey | yes | yes |
| New Mexico | yes | yes |
| New York | yes | yes |
| North Carolina | yes - in some circumstances | yes - in some circumstances |
| North Dakota | no | yes |
| Ohio | no | yes after 3rd offense |
| Oklahoma | yes - in some circumstances | yes - in some circumstances |
| Oregon | yes | yes |
| Pennsylvania | yes after 2nd offense | yes after 2nd offense |
| Rhode Island | yes | yes |
| South Carolina | yes - in some circumstances | yes - in some circumstances |
| South Dakota | no | no |
| Tennessee | yes - in some circumstances | yes - in some circumstances |
| Texas | no | no |
| Utah | yes | yes |
| Vermont | yes - in some circumstances | no |
| Virginia | yes | yes |
| Washington | yes | yes |
| West Virginia | yes - in some circumstances | yes - in some circumstances |
| Wisconsin | yes - in some circumstances | yes - in some circumstances |
| Wyoming | no | yes after 3rd offense |
| Washington DC | no | no |
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Mandatory Interlock
All states have a requirement for an ignition interlock device (IID). Over half of the states in the US require their installation after the first drunk driving offense, while others offer incentives to those who install an IID, and others require IIDs after subsequent offenses.
An IID is a breathalyzer that is designed for a vehicle. Before the vehicle can be started, the driver has to blow into the device. If the person’s alcohol level exceeds the prescribed limit, the vehicle will not start.
Next, you’ll see the IID requirements for each state:
| State | All-Offender | Interlock Statute | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Yes | §32-5A-191 | First offenders with .08 to .14 blood alcohol level must have an ignition interlock for a period of six months. If a first-time offender has a child of 14 years old or younger, has a BAC of 0.15 or higher, or causes an injury to another person, an ignition interlock device must be installed for 1 year, once their license has been returned to them. Second offenders have the same requirement, regardless of extenuating circumstances. A first time offender may also elect for an ignition interlock device for six months in lieu of the mandatory ninety-day license suspension. For third-time offenders the period is 3 years, and for fourth and subsequent offenses, the period is 5 years. |
| Alaska | Yes | §§28.35.030(b) 12.55.102 | The Court shall require anyone who is convicted of DUI to equip any motor vehicle the person operates with an ignition interlock device after the person regains the driving privilege. Minimum of 6 months on first conviction, 12 months upon second conviction and 18 months for a third conviction. Criminal sanctions exist for circumventing or tampering devices. Exemption: Employer. |
| Arizona | Yes | §28-1382-9,10 §28-1381 §28-1383 §§ 28-1401 §28-1402, §28-1321P §28-1381(K)(4) §28-1382 (D)(5) and (F)(5) §28-1383(J)(1) §28-3319(D)and(E) | The court shall require any persons who are convicted of DUI to equip any motor vehicle the person operates with an ignition interlock device. The court shall also require offenders to equip vehicles operated with ignition interlock devices for 1 year at the conclusion of the license suspension/revocation period or on the date of conviction whichever is later if (1) a second drunk driving offense occurs within 84 months; (2) a third or subsequent drunk-driving offense (aggravated driving under the influence ); (3) a drunk-driving offense where the offender is driving on a suspended or revoked license for a prior DWI offense or a prior admin. per se violation (AGDWI); (4) a first or second BAC of 0.15 offense; or, (5) a drunk-driving child endangerment offense. Offenders are eligible for an ignition interlock after 45 days of their license suspension if they wish to resume driving more quickly. For offenders who were convicted of driving with a BAC of 0.15 to 0.2, a judge may suspend all but 9 days of their jail time if they install an ignition interlock device. For drivers convicted of driving with a BAC greater than 0.2, a judge may suspend all but 14 days of their jail sentence if they install an interlock device. Exemptions: Emergency. |
| Arkansas | Yes | §5-65-104(a)(1) §5-65-118 | A person arrested for a first offense DWI are not entitled to a restricted permit but are allowed an ignition interlock restricted license. In addition to any other sanction for a DWI offense, the court (1) must for a first, second, third or subsequent offense, if the offender can afford it, require only operating a motor vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock device. This requirement continues for up to 1 year after the person's license is no longer suspended or revoked. If restricted licenses have been issued, the required use of an ignition interlock device “shall be for at least the remaining time period of the original suspension” period. Persons arrested for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated by the use of a controlled substance or refusal to submit to testing are ineligible for an ignition interlock restricted driving permit. Exemptions: Employer. |
| California | No | Vehicle Code §§ 14601.2, 23556,Vehicle Code §§13352(a) and 23575(f)(1) | The court may require that a person convicted of a first DUI offense install a certified ignition interlock device on any vehicle that the person owns or operates and prohibit that person from operating a motor vehicle unless that vehicle is equipped with a functioning, certified ignition interlock device. The court shall give heightened consideration to applying this sanction to a first offense violator with BAC of 0.15 percent or more, or with two or more prior moving traffic violations, or to persons who refused the chemical tests at arrest. If the court orders the ignition interlock device restriction, the term shall be determined by the court for a period not to exceed 3 years from the date of conviction. Exemptions: Employer, medical. |
| Colorado | No | §42-2-132.5§42-2-125 (2.3)-(2.4) §42-2-132.5(1.5) | For a first offense, offender's license will be revoked for 9 months, with the option after 1 month, to install an ignition interlock device and receive a limited license. A person with greater than BAC of 0.17 is classified as a “persistent drunk driver” and must use an ignition interlock for at least 1 year. For either (1) an impaired, under the influence or illegal per se offense or (2) a habitual offender offense related to one of these alcohol offenses where there has been a previous alcohol driving offense conviction of any type within a 5-year period, an offender must install ignition interlock devices on the vehicles that person drives and is required to hold a restricted license for at least 1 year prior to full license reinstatement. A person who has had his driving privileges revoked for more than 1 year either for (1) driving while either impaired, under the influence or illegal per se or (2) an admin per se violation, is eligible for early license reinstatement with driving restrictions with the use of an ignition interlock device. The restrictions remain in effect for “the longer of 1 year or the total time period remaining on the license restraint prior to early reinstatement.” |
| Connecticut | Yes | §14-227j§14-227a(i) §53a-56b | Any person who has been arrested for a violation may be ordered by the court not to operate any motor vehicle unless such motor vehicle is equipped with an ignition interlock device. The Commissioner of Motor Vehicles shall permit a person whose license has been suspended to operate a motor vehicle if such person has served not less than 45 days of such suspension, and such person has installed an approved ignition interlock device in each motor vehicle owned or to be operated by such person. For a first DUI offense, the driver is prohibited from operating the vehicle for 1 year, after the 45 day suspension period, without the ignition interlock device. For a second offense within 10 years, the driver may not operate a vehicle for 3 years, after the 45 day suspension period, without an approved ignition interlock device. |
| Delaware | Yes | 21 §4177(e) 21 §§2702(e) and §4177F 21 §4177G | All persons convicted of an offense must participate in the Ignition Interlock Device Program. If the original revocation was for 12 months, a person must agree to participate in the program for 14 months whereupon a conditional license is available after 1 month. If the original revocation was for 12 months where there are no prior offenses but there is a refusal to submit to a chemical test, a person must agree to participate in the program for 14 months whereupon a conditional license is available after 2 months. If the original revocation was for 18 months, a person must agree to participate in the program for 20 months whereupon a conditional license is available after 6 months. |
| District of Columbia | Yes | § 50–2201.05a | Except as provided in §§ 50-2206.13(d-1), 50-2206.15(c-1), and 50-2206.55(a-1)(2), a person convicted of a covered offense who holds a driver's license issued by the District shall enroll in the Ignition Interlock System Program ("Program") established by this section for: (1) Upon a first conviction, a period of 6 months; (2) Upon a second conviction, a period of one year; and (3) Upon a third or subsequent conviction, a period of 2 years. (b-1) A person required to participate in the Program pursuant to § 50-1403.01(a) shall enroll in the Program for a period of time to be determined by the Mayor |
| Florida | No | §322.2715(3) §316.193(2)(a)(3) §316.193(2)(b) and (4)(c) §322.2715(1) §316.193 §322.271(2)(d) | Use of ignition interlock device is mandatory for at least 1 year upon a second conviction if driver qualifies for a permanent or restricted license and for at least 2 years for any third conviction and for other extenuating circumstances. If a first-time DUI offender was accompanied in the vehicle by a person younger than 18 years of age, the person shall have the ignition interlock device installed for 6 months for the first offense and for at least 2 years for a second offense. A DWI defendant who is placed on probation and who is otherwise permitted to operate a motor vehicle shall be required to operate vehicles equipped with ignition interlock devices for not less than 6 months. In addition, the licensing agency may require any person seeking reinstatement of their driving privileges to use an ignition interlock device on their vehicle. This requirement can apply to either occupational restricted or regular driving privileges. Exemptions: Medical. |
| Georgia | No | §40-6-391(c)(1)(E) §§42-8-111 and 42-8-112 §42-8-112(b)(3) §40-5-64(c.1)(2) | Georgia law allows for first offenders to use an ignition interlock. Second and subsequent offenders on probation must install ignition interlock devices on all of the vehicles they own and only operate vehicles equipped with such devices. Use begins when the offender is issued limited driving privileges and must last for at least 12 months. If habitual offender status is based on two or more drunk-driving offense convictions and the offender is placed on probation, the use of a probationary license is conditioned of the use of an ignition interlock device for 6 months after the probationary license has been issued. An ignition interlock device limited driving permit shall be restricted to allow the holder thereof to drive solely; to work, to school, regularly scheduled sessions or meetings of treatment support organizations, and monthly monitoring visits with the permit holder's ignition interlock device service provider. If a court grants an exemption from the ignition interlock device requirements, such person shall not be eligible for a limited driving permit or any other driving privilege for a period of one year. Exemptions: Financial hardship. |
| Guam | – | – | No laws available at this time. |
| Hawaii | Yes | 2008 H.B. 3377 | For first offense: 1-year revocation of license and privilege to operate a vehicle during the revocation period and installation during the revocation period of an ignition interlock device on any vehicle operated by the person. For second offense within 5 years or first conviction if Highly Intoxicated: A 2-year revocation of license and privilege to operate a vehicle during the revocation period and installation during the revocation period of an ignition interlock device on any vehicle operated by the person. Exemptions: Employer. |
| Idaho | Yes (eff. 1/1/19) | §18-8008(1)(b) §18-8004A(2)(d) and (3)(e) §18-8004C(2)(e) §18-8005(4)(f) and (5)(e) | If a person is convicted, is found guilty or pleads guilty to violating provisions relating to driving under the influence, the court shall order the person to have a state approved ignition interlock system installed at his expense, on all motor vehicles operated by him. Ignition interlock installation is mandatory following the mandatory license suspension period for violators who had BAC over 0.20 at time of arrest. Any person who has been found guilty of DUI within the prior 10 years, installation of an ignition interlock is mandatory. |
| Illinois | Yes | 625 ILCS 5/11-501.01 | The court shall require any persons who are convicted of DUI to equip any motor vehicle the person operates with an ignition interlock device during the period of statutory license suspension. Other than offenders that must drive to and from a farm, or operate a tractor while working on a farm, DUI offenders will be automatically issued an ignition interlock device. They may decline the device, but without it, the offender will face increased penalties. Exemptions: Employer. |
| Indiana | No | IC 9-30-8-1 and 9-30-5-16IC 9-30-5-10(c)-(d) | As a condition for obtaining probationary driving privileges, the court may require a defendant to use only vehicles equipped with ignition interlock devices for a term established by the court with the limitation that such term cannot exceed the maximum prison sentence; violation of this requirement is a Class A infraction. Other provisions of law also provide that a person convicted of an illegal per se/intoxicated offense (within 5 years or within 10 years but more than 5 years of a previous conviction) may be granted probationary (restricted) driving privileges on the condition that the person only operates vehicles equipped with ignition interlock devices. |
| Iowa | Yes | §§321J.17 and 321J.4§§321J.9(2)(b) and 321J.20(6) | A defendant whose alcohol concentration is .08 but not more than .10 shall not be eligible for any temporary restricted license for at least thirty days if a test was obtained and an accident resulting in injury or property damage occurred. The department shall require the defendant to install an ignition interlock device on all vehicles if the defendant seeks a temporary restricted license. A defendant whose alcohol concentration is more than .10 shall not be eligible for any temporary restricted license for at least thirty days if a test was obtained and an accident resulting in injury or property damage occurred or the defendant’s alcohol concentration exceeded .15. The department shall require the defendant to install an ignition interlock device on all vehicles if the defendant seeks a temporary restricted license. A second or subsequent offender, after the mandatory license revocation period, may be granted restricted driving privileges provided they install ignition interlock devices on all of the vehicles they own.Prior to reinstating the driving privileges to a second or subsequent offender, the State shall require such person to install ignition interlock devices on all of the vehicles they own for 1 year. For either a first or subsequent refusal, a restricted license may be issued by the licensing agency provided the minimum period of license revocation has expired. A person must install an ignition interlock system on the vehicle(s) they operate as a condition for obtaining a restricted license. A person who tampers with or circumvents an ignition interlock device installed as required in this chapter and while the requirement for the ignition interlock device is in effect commits a serious misdemeanor. |
| Kansas | Yes | §8-1014(b)(2) §§8-292 and 8-1015 | First offense, BAC over 0.08: a 30-day suspension followed by 6 months of ignition interlock device if your record is clear OR 12 months of interlock if you have a prior open container violation or three or more moving violations. Failure of a breath test with a result of BAC over 0.15 the first time, or over 0.08 on a second or subsequent occurrence is a 1 year suspension followed by ignition interlock (length of interlock is dependent on priors). Refusal of a breath, blood or urine test is a 1-year suspension, followed by ignition interlock requirement (length of interlock is dependent on priors), regardless of how many prior Kansas DUI occurrences a person has. Those that are required to install ignition interlocks for 10 years may petition the court after 5 years to have it removed. Driver with an ignition interlock can drive vehicle only for the purposes of getting to and from: Work, school or an alcohol treatment program; and the ignition interlock provider for maintenance and downloading of data from the device. Tampering or circumventing the ignition interlock device is a class A, nonperson misdemeanor: first conviction, restriction extended 90 days; second or subsequent conviction, restart the original restriction period. Exemptions: Employer. |
| Kentucky | No | §189A.340§189A.410 | At the conclusion of an offender’s license revocation period, the court may require that person to operate only motor vehicles equipped with ignition interlock devices (with the exception of an employer’s vehicles). This requirement lasts for the following periods following license revocation: first offense – 6 months; second offense (within 5 years) – 12 months; third or subsequent offense (within 5 years) – 30 months. Second or subsequent offenders must wait at least 1 year from the start of the license revocation period before applying to the court for permission to use an ignition interlock device. This requirement may be used as an alternative to impounding the license plates of a second or subsequent drunk-driving offender. The court may grant hardship driving privileges for the purpose of employment, education, medical care, alcohol/substance abuse education programs or other court-ordered counseling programs. This privilege may be conditioned on the offender operating motor vehicles equipped with ignition interlock devices. Exemptions: Employer. |
| Louisiana | Yes | §32:378.2(A)(2)(ii) §14:98K(1) | For the offense, upon first or second conviction, or entry of a plea of guilty or nolo contendere, the offender’s vehicle must be equipped with a functioning ignition interlock device to be issued a restricted license. First offense with a BAC of 0.20 or more results in suspension for at least 2 years. But a restricted license may be granted during the entire period of suspension with installation of ignition interlock. Exemptions: Employer. |
| Maine | Yes | 29-A §2412-A, sub-§7 29-A §2411 29-A §2508 | As a condition of license reinstatement the Secretary of State may require a person to install in the motor vehicle the person operates for a period of up to 2 years an ignition interlock device. The license of a person with one OUI offense may be reinstated after 30 days of the suspension period has run if the person has installed for a period of 150 days or the length of time remaining for an ignition interlock device approved by the Secretary of State in the motor vehicle the person operates. The license of a person with 2 OUI offenses, convictions or adjudications may be reinstated after 2 years if the person installs for a period of 9 months an ignition interlock device approved by the Secretary of State in the motor vehicle the person operates. The license of a person with 3 OUI offenses, convictions or adjudications may be reinstated after 3 years if the person installs for a period of 3 years an ignition interlock device. The license of a person with 4 or more OUI offenses, convictions or adjudications may be reinstated after 4 years if the person installs for a period of 4 years an ignition interlock device approved by the Secretary of State in the motor vehicle the person operates. |
| Maryland | Yes | Crim. Proc. §6-221 Tran. §27-107 Tran. §27-108 Tran. §16-404.1 Tran. §16-404(c)(3) Tran. §16-404.1(4)(i) Tran. §16-404.1(b)(4)(iii) | As a condition of probation, the court may order a defendant for 1-3 years to operate only vehicles equipped with ignition interlock devices. If defendant registers a BAC of 0.15 or more, the court must order ignition interlock for at least 1 year. The licensing agency may establish an ignition interlock program for persons who have been convicted of alcohol-related driving offenses. This program does not apply to persons who have been convicted of driving while under the influence of a controlled substance. A person who is subject to license suspension via the point system for a conviction of DWI may be issued a restricted license by participating in the Ignition Interlock Program. A person who is subject to license revocation following a conviction for either DWI or for DUI may have the license suspended in lieu of revocation by participating in the ignition interlock program. The suspension periods (or restricted license) imposed are the same as for DWI. A fourth or subsequent offender is considered a “habitual offender” and he cannot have his driving privileges restored until he has participated in this program for at least 24 months. Exemptions: Employer. |
| Massachusetts | No | 90§24 (1)(c)(2) | Offenders with more than one drunken-driving conviction are required to install an ignition interlock device on their vehicles for a period of 2 years as a condition of having their licenses reinstated. |
| Michigan | No | §257.322(6), (7), (8) and (9) §257.625 (24) | A person who has had his license revoked for any drunk-driving offense may, after the mandatory revocation period, be issued a restricted license instead of full driving privileges. If a restricted license is issued, the driver is limited to operating motor vehicles that are equipped with an ignition interlock device. The initial period for the use of such device is 1 year. Interlocks required for first-time DUI offenders convicted with a BAC of 0.17 or above. Exemptions: Employer. |
| Minnesota | No | §171.306§169A.275 (7) | A judge is not required to sentence a person as provided in this section if the judge requires the person as a condition of probation to drive only motor vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device meeting the standards described in section 171.306. First offenders may apply for conditional reinstatement of the driver's license, subject to the ignition interlock restriction. Second or subsequent offenders may apply for a limited license, subject to the ignition interlock restriction, if the program participant is enrolled in a licensed chemical dependency treatment or rehabilitation program as recommended in a chemical use assessment, and if the participant meets the other applicable requirements of section 171.30. Tampering or attempting to circumvent the interlock system: 180 days for a first violation; 1 year for a second violation; or 545 days for a third and each subsequent violation. Exemption: Employer. Exception not allowed for violations causing bodily harm. |
| Mississippi | Yes | §63-11-30 (2)(f) §63-11-31(2) | For the first offense, the offender will have license suspended for 90 days and until such person attends and successfully completes an alcohol safety education program. However, in the court’s discretion, the license may be suspended for 30 days and the offender must operate a vehicle under an ignition interlock restricted license for 90 days following the mandatory thirty-day suspension. Upon a second offense, the license shall be suspended for a period of 45 days. The offenders license will not be restored following the mandatory suspension, unless, the person holds an ignition interlock restricted license for one year. Upon a third offense, the license will be suspended for a mandatory two years. Following the 2 years, offenders will not be eligible to drive unless they hold an ignition interlock restricted license for 3 years following the release of incarceration. The court may impose an ignition interlock restriction for up to four years for a violation resulting in the serious bodily harm or death of another.” Exemption: Employer. |
| Missouri | No | V.A.M.S. 302.304V.A.M.S. 577.600 | When a license is suspended or revoked ignition interlock is required to be maintained on all motor vehicles operated by the person for a period of not less than 6 months immediately following the date of reinstatement. A court may require that any person who is found guilty of or pleads guilty to a first intoxication-related traffic offense, and a court shall require that any person who is found guilty of or pleads guilty to a second or subsequent intoxication-related traffic offense, shall not operate any motor vehicle unless that vehicle is equipped with a functioning, certified ignition interlock device for a period of not less than 6 months from the date of reinstatement of the person's driver's license. |
| Montana | No | §61-5-208(2) §61-8-731(3)(h) §61-5-208(3) §61-8-442 | For a first offense, a court may restrict an offender to only operate motor vehicles that are equipped with ignition interlock devices. For either a second or subsequent offense, a defendant who is issued a probationary license is restricted to operating motor vehicles that are equipped with ignition interlock devices. For fourth or subsequent offenses, if an offender is permitted to operate motor vehicles as a condition of probation, such vehicles must be equipped with ignition interlock devices. Licensing action is stayed while participating in the ignition interlock program. The duration of this restriction is equal to the period of license suspension or revocation. |
| Nebraska | Yes | §60-498.02 §60-6,197.01 §60-498.01(10) and (11) | At the expiration of 30 days (60 days if test refused) after an order of administrative license revocation for 90 days is entered, any person who submitted to a chemical test which disclosed the presence of a concentration of alcohol in violation of the statutory limit is eligible for an order to allow application for an ignition interlock permit to operate a motor vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock device upon presentation of sufficient evidence to the Department of Motor Vehicles that such a device is installed. As an alternative to vehicle disablement, the court shall order the convicted person, in order to operate a motor vehicle, to obtain an ignition interlock permit and install an ignition interlock device on each of the motor vehicles owned or operated by the convicted person if he or she was sentenced to an operator's license revocation of at least 1 year and has completed at least 1 year of such revocation. Those without prior records may operate their ignition interlock equipped vehicle only to work, school, a substance abuse treatment center, a parole meeting, to a healthcare facility, or to community service. Those with a record may only drive to school, work, or to a treatment facility. Persons under 18 years of age shall not be eligible for an ignition interlock permit. Tampering or attempting to circumvent the interlock shall, in addition to any possible criminal charges, have his or her revocation period and ignition interlock permit extended for 6 months beyond the end of the original revocation period. |
| Nevada | Yes | §484.3943(1) and (2) | The court shall require a defendant to install an ignition interlock as a condition for restricted driving privileges as follows: First offense – minimum of 6 months (mandatory) with a BAC less than 0.18, 12-36 months (mandatory) if over 0.18; second offense – (mandatory); and, third and subsequent offense – 12 to 36 months (mandatory). The court may require a defendant to install an ignition interlock as a condition for the reinstatement of driving privileges. The period of use is determined by the court. Exemptions: Financial hardship, employer, medical, unable to provide lung test and/or defendant lives more than 100 miles from a manufacturer of a device or agent. |
| New Hampshire | Yes | §265-A:36 | Interlock device required on any vehicle registered to a person who drives after a suspension or revocation resulting from a DWI offense. |
| New Jersey | No | §§39:4-50(a)(1), (2) and (3) §39:4-50.17 | A first time offender with a BAC greater than 0.15 must install an ignition interlock device. Installation is mandatory for 6 months after the required period of license suspension has been served. After license suspension period has been completed, a person may be required to install an ignition interlock device on all of the motor vehicles he owns or operates. The device must be installed for the following periods: first offense—discretionary 6 months to 1 year (6 months required usage if ignition interlock use ordered); second or subsequent offense—mandatory ignition usage for 1 (mandatory) to 3 years. |
| New Mexico | Yes | §66-8-102(N) §66-5-35(A)(3) and (C) §66-5-29 C | Persons who have been convicted of a misdemeanor drunk-driving offense shall be required, as a condition of probation, to operate only motor vehicles that are equipped with ignition interlock devices, as follows: a period of 1 year, for a first offender; a period of 2 years, for a second conviction; a period of 3 years, for a third conviction; for life for a fourth or subsequent conviction, except that 5 years from the date of conviction and every 5 years thereafter, the offender may apply to a district court for removal of the Interlock for good cause shown. Good cause may include alcohol screening and proof from the interlock vendor that the person has not had violations of the interlock device. |
| New York | Yes | V and T Law §1193(b) VT §1193(1-a)(c) | Ignition interlock is required for all offenses during the period of license revocation or a minimum of 6 months and thereafter by court order. Exemptions: Employer. |
| North Carolina | No | §§20-17.8(a), (b) and (c) §20-179.3(g3) and (g5) §20-17.8(c) | Persons eligible for restricted driving privileges may be required to operate motor vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device. This requirement is mandatory if the BAC was greater than 0.16 or if the person is a second or subsequent offender (within 7 years). After license restoration, required ignition interlock usage is as follows: 1 year if license revocation was for 1 year; 3 years if license revocation was for 4 years; and 7 years if the license was permanently revoked but can be restored. Tampering or attempting to circumvent the interlock system is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Exemptions: Financial hardship, medical. |
| North Dakota | No | §39-06.1-11 §39-08-01.3 | The court or driver licensing agency may order a defendant to install an ignition interlock device on his vehicle. This requirement applies to the issuance of temporary restricted driving privileges. |
| Ohio | No | §4510.43 §4510.44 §2951.02(G)(2) and (3) | If imposed, as a condition of probation by the court, offenders must obtain a specially marked driver’s license indicating they may only operate a vehicle equipped with such an ignition interlock device. For first and second offenses, the court may order a person to use ignition interlock devices when using an occupational license; for third and subsequent offenses, the court must require a person to use these devices when using an occupational license. |
| Oklahoma | No | 47 §11-902 (D).47§§ 754.1(B) and 755. §6-212.3 | A person is guilty of Aggravated Driving if convicted of driving under the influence with a BAC greater than 0.15. Such a conviction, or a refusal to take a chemical test, requires ignition interlock use for a minimum of 30 days. After a period of license revocation, as a condition of modification, the driver must agree, except in certain circumstances, to only operate motor vehicles that are equipped with an ignition interlock device. The motor vehicles department will issue a new driver’s license with the words “Interlock Required” on it. For a first time offender, with a BAC greater than 0.15, or chemical test refusal, once their initial license revocation period is finished, they will be required to have an ignition interlock device for 1.5 years, or until their driving privileges would normally be reinstated, whichever is longer. For a second time offender, the interlock period is 4 years, or until driving privileges are to be reinstated, whichever is longer. For a third or subsequent offense, the period is 5 years or until their license would be normally reinstated, whichever is longer. Exemptions: Employer. |
| Oregon | Yes | §§813.602(1)(a), (1)(b) and (2) §813.606 §813.602 | Persons convicted of DWI offenses shall have an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicles prior to being issued a hardship license. First offenders must operate motor vehicles equipped with ignition interlock devices for 1 year after the end of the license suspension or revocation period; second or subsequent offenders must operate with an interlock device for 2 years after the ending date of the suspension or revocation caused by the conviction. When a person is convicted of a crime or multiple crimes, the department shall require that the person install and use an approved ignition interlock device in any vehicle operated by the person for 5 years after the ending date of the longest running suspension or revocation caused by any of the convictions (crimes include driving under the influence and: Any degree of murder; manslaughter in the first or second degree; criminally negligent homicide; assault in the first degree; aggravated vehicular homicide) The court may require the use of an ignition interlock device as part of a diversion agreement. Exemptions: Medical, employer. |
| Pennsylvania | Yes | 75 §3805(a) | All vehicles owned by offenders may for a first offense and must for a subsequent one be equipped with ignition interlock devices for at least 1 year following license reinstatement. Exemptions: Financial hardship. |
| Puerto Rico | – | – | No laws available at this time. |
| Rhode Island | No | §§31-27-2(d)(2) and (3) §31-27-2.8 § 31-27-2 | Beginning January 1, 2015, convicted DUI offenders with a blood alcohol content at 0.15 or above, repeat DUI offenders and offenders who repeatedly refuse BAC tests must install ignition interlock devices. Third or subsequent offender may be required to use these devices for 2 years. Requirements begin following the completion of any incarceration period. Exemptions: Employer. (ii) Every person convicted of a first violation whose blood alcohol concentration is one-tenth of one percent (.1%) by weight or above, but less than fifteen hundreths of one percent (.15%), or whose blood alcohol concentration is unknown, shall be subject to a fine of not less than one hundred ($100) dollars, nor more than four hundred dollars ($400), and shall be required to perform ten (10) to sixty (60) hours of public community resitution and /or shall be imprisoned for up to one year. The sentence may be served in any unit of the adult correctional institutions in the discretion of the sentencing judge. The person's driving license shall be suspended for a period of three (3) months to twelve (12) months. The sentencing judge shall require attendance at a special course on driving while intoxicated or under the influence of a controlled substance and/or alcoholic or drug treatment for the individual; provided, however, that the court may permit a servicemember or veteran to complete any court-approved counseling program administered or approved by the Veterans' Administration. The sentencing judge or magistrate may prohibit that person from operating a motor vehicle that is not equipped with an ignition interlock system as provided in § 31-27-2.8. |
| South Carolina | No | §56-5-2941 | The Department of Motor Vehicles must require the person, if a subsequent offender, to install an ignition interlock device. The DMV may waive the requirements of this section if it finds that the offender has a medical condition that makes him incapable of properly operating the installed device. The length of time that an interlock device is required to be affixed to a motor vehicle following the completion of a period of license suspension imposed on the offender is 2 years for a second offense, 3 years for a third offense, and the remainder of the offender's life for a fourth or subsequent offense. Notwithstanding the pleadings, for purposes of a second or a subsequent offense, the specified length of time that an interlock device is required to be affixed to a motor vehicle is based on the Department of Motor Vehicle's records for offenses. In addition, first time DUI offenders with a BAC < 0.15 are required to install an ignition interlock device for six months. DUI offenders who cause great bodily harm to another must obtain an ignition interlock restricted license for three years; five years for causing death. DUI offenders convicted of child endangerment must install an ignition interlock device for three months.” Exemptions: Financial hardship, medical, employer. |
| South Dakota | No | § 1-11-24 | The Attorney General, may promulgate rules for the administration of and provide for procedures and apparatus for testing including electronic monitoring devices and ignition interlock devices. |
| Tennessee | Yes | 55-10-404 §55-10-409 §55-10-412 §55-10-403(a)(1)(A)(iii) | A person convicted of any DUI offense, when applying for and the court orders the issuance of a restricted motor vehicle operator’s license, must operate only a motor vehicle that is equipped with a functioning ignition interlock device. The order is a condition of probation if at the time of the offense, the defendant: (1) Has a blood or breath alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or higher; (2) Is accompanied by a person under 18 years of age; (3) Is involved in a traffic accident for which notice to law enforcement is required under present law and the accident is the proximate result of the person's intoxication; or (4) Is in violation of the implied consent law, and has a conviction or juvenile delinquency adjudication for a violation that occurred within five years of the instant implied consent violation, for implied consent, underage driving while impaired, the open container law, or reckless driving if the charged offense was DUI. An ignition interlock device must be in operation during the entire time period a restricted license is effectuated and must continue to be in operation six months after the license revocation period has expired. The license suspension periods are the following: (1)First offense: one year (2) Second offense: two years (3) Third offense: six years (4) Fourth or subsequent offense: eight years. If a person convicted of a DUI has a prior DUI conviction within the past five years, then, after the revocation period, the person may only operate only a motor vehicle that is equipped with a functioning interlock device for one year and such requirement is a condition of the person's probation. For a second DUI violation within ten years, the installation of an ignition interlock device is mandatory. No geographic restriction requirements for restricted licenses. Exemption: Employment. |
| Texas | Yes | Penal Code §49.09(g) §521.241 et seq. Code of Criminal Procedure 42.12 | For a first or subsequent offense: The court must order the offender to install ignition interlock devices on all of the motor vehicles he owns for the period of license suspension. The offender can choose a hard suspension with no interlock. When applying for an occupational license, the court may require a first offender and must require subsequent offenders within 10 years to only operate vehicles that are equipped with ignition interlock devices. Unless the interests of justice indicate otherwise, a magistrate shall require an offender (Intoxicated Assault, Intoxicated Manslaughter or a subsequent DWI offense), after release from confinement, to only operate vehicles that are equipped with ignition interlock devices. Exemption: Employer. |
| Utah | Yes | §41-6a-518.2 §41-6-44(15) | An offender is required, as a condition of probation, only to operate motor vehicles that are equipped with ignition interlock devices. The person’s license will be suspended pending completion of the period with the interlock device. If the defendant had a BAC of 0.16 or higher, the court shall order the following (or describe on record why the order or orders are not appropriate): Treatment and one or both of the following: ignition interlock system as a condition of probation, and home confinement through the use of electronic monitoring. Exemption: Employer. |
| Vermont | Yes | Sec. 4. 23 V.S.A. §1205 Sec. 2. 23 V.S.A. §1213 | (a) (1) First offense. A person whose license or privilege to operate is suspended or revoked under this subchapter may operate a motor vehicle, other than a commercial motor vehicle as defined in section 4103 of this title, if issued a valid ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate. Upon application, the Commissioner shall issue an ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate to a person otherwise licensed or eligible to be licensed to operate a motor vehicle if: (D) the applicable period set forth below has passed since the suspension or revocation was imposed if the offense involved refusal of an enforcement officer's reasonable request for an evidentiary test: (i) 30 days for a first offense; (ii) 90 days for a second offense; (iii) one year for a third or subsequent offense. Persons who elect to obtain an ignition interlock RDL following a conviction under this subchapter when the person's BAC is 0.16 or more shall be required to install an ignition interlock device with a Global Positioning System feature. Second or subsequent offenders must install an ignition interlock device for 18 months before a driver's license will be reinstated. Tampering or attempting to circumvent the interlock is a criminal offense and if convicted the period of use is extended by 6 months. |
| Virginia | Yes | §18.2-270.1 §18.2-270.2 §46.2-360 §46.2-391 | For first offense and subsequent offenses, the court shall require a DWI offender who has been granted either restricted driving privileges or full driving privileges on condition to operate only motor vehicles that are equipped with ignition interlock devices for any period of time not to exceed the period of license suspension and restriction, not less than 6 consecutive months without alcohol-related violations of the interlock requirements. Tampering or attempting to circumvent an interlock is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Exemption: Employer. |
| Washington | Yes | §46.20.740 §46.20.385 | The court shall order any person convicted of an alcohol-related violation or an equivalent local ordinance to apply for an ignition interlock driver's license and to have a functioning ignition interlock device installed on all motor vehicles operated by the person. The court may also order the installation of an interlock device for a driver that is convicted of reckless or negligent driving within 7 years of an alcohol-related driving offense. An ignition interlock may be required for reckless or negligent drivers without a prior DUI conviction. An ignition interlock device will be required for any driver convicted of vehicular homicide while driving under the influence. If a minor passenger was in the vehicle at the time of the DUI offense, the use of an ignition interlock device is extended by six months. The court may waive the requirement that a person obtain an ignition interlock driver's license and operate only vehicles equipped with a functioning ignition interlock device if the court makes a specific finding in writing that the devices are not reasonably available in the local area, that the person does not operate a vehicle, or the person is not eligible to receive an ignition interlock driver's license. For a person who has not previously been restricted, the device shall be installed for a period of 1 year; for a second restriction, a period of 5 years; for a third or subsequent restriction, a period of 10 years. The driver may apply for day-for-day credit towards the period of license revocation for use of an interlock device, as long as the device is installed in all non-exempt vehicles the driver operates. A person receiving an ignition interlock driver's license waives his or her right to a hearing or appeal under RCW 46.20.308. If a minor passenger was in the vehicle at the time of the DUI offense, the use of an ignition interlock device is extended by six months. Exemption: Employer. |
| West Virginia | Yes | 17C-5A-3a | An individual convicted of driving under the influence must participate in the State’s Alcohol Test and Lock Program (ATLP). Part of the ATLP is use of an ignition interlock device (IID). Within sixty (60) days of installing an IID through a state-approved service provider, individuals must enroll in the ATLP. An IID must be installed on all vehicles owned or operated by the offender. An ignition interlock device must be installed for the following time periods: (1) First time offender with a BAC between .08 and .15: at least one hundred and twenty-five days. (2) First offense for refusing a test: at least one year. (3)First offense with a BAC < .15: at least two hundred and seventy days. (4) First offense resulting in the death of another person: at least two years. (5) First offense resulting in serious bodily harm to another person: at least one year. (6) First offense with a minor in the vehicle: at least ten months. Subsequent admin per se violation or DWI offense and second or subsequent refusal: The ignition interlock must be used for 2 years. |
| Wisconsin | No | §§343.301(1) and (2) and 343.305(10m) | For a second or subsequent offense (within 5 years), a person’s vehicles must be immobilized or equipped with an ignition interlock device for not less than 1 year nor more than the maximum period of license revocation. Ignition interlock usage starts 1 year after the revocation period. The DOT must limit the occupational license of a person who has 2 or more prior violations to operating only vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device, regardless of whether a court has ordered every vehicle that is titled or registered in the offender's name to be equipped with such a device. Interlocks mandatory for a minimum of 1 year if the person has a BAC of 0.15 or more. Exemption: Financial hardship. |
| Wyoming | No | §31-5-233 §31-6-102 | For a first conviction where the conviction is based on the person having BAC of 0.15 or more, operate only vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device for a period of 6 months from the date of conviction; For a second conviction, operate only vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device, for a period of 1 year from the date of conviction; For a third conviction, operate only vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device, for a period of 2 years from the date of conviction; For a fourth or subsequent conviction, operate only vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device, for the remainder of the offender's life, except 5 years from the date of conviction and every 5 years thereafter, the offender may apply to the court for removal of the ignition interlock device required by this paragraph. The court may, for good cause shown, remove the ignition interlock device requirement if the offender has not been subsequently convicted of driving a motor vehicle in violation of this section or other law prohibiting driving while under the influence. If a person fails to submit to all required chemical tests requested by the peace officer shall result in the suspension of his Wyoming driver's license or his privilege to operate a motor vehicle for a period of 6 months for a first offense or 18 months for a second or subsequent offense and he may be required to drive only vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device. Exemption: Employer. |
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If these seem like strict guidelines, know that they are only in place to deter anyone attempting to get behind the wheel while under the influence. More people should be aware of what goes into making sure someone practices safe driving techniques, and these rules are a good start.
Can you be punished for a high BAC?
Many states have higher penalties for persons caught driving with a BAC over 0.15 percent. The stiffer consequences are for good reason.
Over 50 percent more drivers involved in fatal crashes had a BAC level of 0.16 percent than those with a BAC of 0.08 percent.
Insurance companies will often increase rates by a higher percentage for those convicted of a high BAC DUI than those convicted of a standard DUI.
Below are the high BAC limits by state. Some states have more than one tier of high BAC offense.
| State | High BAC Limit | State | High BAC Limit | State | High BAC Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 0.15 | Louisiana | 0.15; 0.2 | Ohio | 0.17 |
| Alaska | NA | Maine | 0.15 | Oklahoma | 0.15 |
| Arizona | 0.15-0.2; 0.2+ | Maryland | 0.15 | Oregon | 0.15 |
| Arkansas | NA | Massachusetts | 0.2 | Pennsylvania | 0.16 |
| California | 0.15-0.2; 0.2+ | Michigan | 0.17 | Rhode Island | 0.15 |
| Colorado | 0.15-0.2; 0.2+ | Minnesota | 0.16 | South Carolina | 0.16 |
| Connecticut | NA | Mississippi | NA | South Dakota | 0.17 |
| Delaware | 0.15-0.2; 0.2+ | Missouri | 0.15; 0.2 | Tennessee | 0.2 |
| Florida | 0.15 | Montana | 0.16 | Texas | 0.15 |
| Georgia | 0.15 | Nebraska | 0.15 | Utah | 0.16 |
| Hawaii | NA | Nevada | 0.18 | Vermont | 0.16 |
| Idaho | 0.2 | New Hampshire | 0.16 | Virginia | 0.15; 0.2 |
| Illinois | 0.16 | New Jersey | 0.15 | Washington | 0.15 |
| Indiana | 0.15 | New Mexico | 0.16 | West Virginia | 0.15 |
| Iowa | 0.15 | New York | 0.18 | Wisconsin | 0.17-.199; 0.2-0.249; 0.25+ |
| Kansas | 0.15 | North Carolina | 0.15 | Wyoming | 0.15 |
| Kentucky | 0.15 | North Dakota | 0.18 | Washington DC | 0.2-0.25; 0.25-0.3; 0.3+ |
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High BAC is strongly related to the fatality rate when driving. The states with the worst drivers often have a lot of DUI charges. See just how strong the correlation is next.
What is the DUI fatality rate?
This data is available from FARS 2017 ARF, and the graphic was designed by the National Center for Statistics and Analysis, “Alcohol-Impaired Driving: 2017 Data.â€
On the map above, you can see the percentage of DUI-related traffic deaths out of all traffic deaths. A BAC level of 0.08 percent makes you 250 percent more likely to be involved in an accident than someone with no alcohol in his or her blood.
And when you have a BAC level of 0.16 or higher, you’re looking at an over 1100 percent increased chance of being in an accident. Let those stats serve as education. It’s not just about finding the cheapest coverage options, it’s about avoiding unsafe situations that could put others in danger. Don’t drink and drive. Your life is worth finding a different ride.
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What about the fatality rate vs. arrest rate?
“Each day, people drive drunk more than 300,000 times, but only about 2800 are arrested,” according to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). Obviously, there are many times more people drinking and driving than are getting caught.
You would think that in states where DUIs are being pounded by law enforcement, you’d see less drunk driving and fewer fatalities, but as you can see by this chart, they don’t seem to correlate. In fact, the three states with the highest arrest rate are in the top seven states for death rates.
There is a little more correlation between the death rate and the rate at which people admit to drinking and driving, though it’s still certainly not a magic formula.
The states that have the highest fatality rate tend to be less populated states with many miles of roadway. You’ll certainly have more of a chance to cause a fatality when traveling at highway speeds than you would while traveling in town.
There are more arrests made in the states where people admit to drinking and driving at higher rates.
Also in the states at the top of the list vs. the states at the bottom of the list, there is a big difference in access to public transportation. New York City runs on public transportation and taxis. Montana doesn’t; in most small towns you’d be hard-pressed to even find an Uber driver.
Another factor is that in metropolitan areas, people tend to frequent their local tavern, which is close and maybe even accessible by foot. In states like Montana and Wyoming, metropolitan areas are few and far between, and it’s almost a cultural part of life to drive home drunk, often covering many miles.
What are the consequences for getting a DUI?
Waiting on data
It’s not just about the loss of driving privileges. There are consequences surrounding your insurance as well. If you have caused a DUI crash or even just been involved in one, you’re going to want to read on to learn if insurance will cover that crash.
Will insurance cover a DUI crash?
This topic is tricky. The insurance company may cover your liability after you cause a DUI crash. But, it may not.
Determining which insurance company pays for the damages caused by the accident depends on which driver was at fault and your state’s particular insurance laws.
If you were found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the accident, you will most likely be considered the cause of the auto accident.
Some states have a no-fault system. In a no-fault state, each driver must file a claim with their car insurance provider for personal injury claims and the individual’s insurance company pays for those expenses.
However, living in a no-fault state does not entirely preclude you from being sued.
Usually, those exceptions state that you can be sued if you cause grievous bodily harm to another individual, and you were obviously the driver that caused the accident.
When the state does not have no-fault laws, the insurance companies must determine who caused the accident because that driver’s insurance company will be responsible for paying for damages and injuries that were caused by the accident.
If you are determined to be the driver that caused the auto accident, because your blood alcohol levels were higher than legally allowed, your insurance company may or may not pay your expenses.
It depends on your specific insurance policy and the policies of your insurance company. They may argue that drunk driving was an “intentional act” and thus deny coverage.
If your insurance company denies coverage for the damage you cause another party, you will be responsible for paying those damages out of pocket.
If you practice safe driving habits, this won’t concern you. However, if you’ve driven in error and you’re needing to watch your budget, keep reading to see what sort of insurance discounts are available to you.
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Are there ways to have DUI insurance and still save money?
Not every car insurance company will insure you if you have been convicted of a DUI or DWI as this makes you a high-risk driver. If you find a car insurance company that is willing to insure you once your driver’s license is in good standing, you will probably have higher monthly costs, and will no doubt be required to take on additional coverage.
By shopping around for different DUI car insurance, you may be able to find lower rates.
One of the best things you can do is complete a drunk driving rehabilitation course, even if the law does not require it of you. Completing a course like that can help lower your car insurance premium if you are convicted of drunk driving.
Any tip that can be used to reduce standard car insurance can also apply to car insurance that is purchased by someone with a DUI. This means that you can reduce your premiums by doing the following:
- Raising your deductible
- Limiting the drivers on your policy
- Lowering your annual mileage
It might seem like a lot to do, but if you’re on your way to having a safer, clean history on the road, you’ll want to work with your current provider to ensure you’re doing everything you can. And if you’re in the market, finding lower rates can start right here! Enter your ZIP code into our rate tool below and start comparing quotes.
FAQs
Below, we have answered some of the most popular questions concerning DUIs.
What car insurance options do I have if my spouse has a DUI?
There are essentially two options available to you if your spouse has been convicted of a DUI:
- Get car insurance that excludes the driver with the DUI/DWI conviction.
- Get coverage that includes that driver and try to get the best deal possible on the premium.
How long will my insurance rates stay high following a DUI?
Likely, your insurance rates will drop as the years since your infraction grow and the insurance company will likely not consider your offense at all once you reach your state’s washout period.
Can you get a DUI while parked?
This answer depends on the state laws where you live. Some laws specify that it is illegal for a person to “drive” under the influence of alcohol, so if that’s what your laws state, you’d actually have to be driving.
Most states add to the driving requirement and say “being in physical control” of the vehicle, which sitting in the driver’s seat with the keys in the ignition would constitute. In a lot of places, the keys don’t even have to be in the ignition, just in the driver’s possession.
How does a law enforcement officer determine if you’re driving under the influence?
The officer will most likely pull you over because you have disobeyed a traffic law. He will then use his senses to gather information like the smell of alcohol, hearing slurred speech, etc. If his or her suspicions warrant further investigation, he or she may ask you to take a field sobriety test. Based on the results of the maneuvers test, you may be asked to blow into a breathalyzer.
Is reciting the alphabet backward part of the field sobriety test?
No. Can you even do that when you’re sober?
What happens if I have a DUI on my record and move to another state?
It depends on which state you got a DUI in and what state you’re moving to. Many states have shared databases, which means your DUI offense will move with you. California will evaluate the DUI conviction and decide if it falls under their DUI laws. Read more about California car insurance to learn about how DUI convictions affect your insurance in the state.
Can I get a DUI if my BAC is under the legal limit?
Actually, in a lot of places you can. It’s a harder offense to prosecute, but if the officers can prove impairment, you may still be faced with a DUI even if your BAC is under 0.08 percent.
Can you get a DUI riding a bicycle?
Yes, in some states.
What Happens to Your Insurance When You Get a DUI?
How much does your insurance go up after a DUI? A DUI conviction will increase your car insurance rates by 41% on average. One blemish on your driving record could follow you for three to seven years.
- Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs will affect your auto insurance rates
- Not only is driving under the influence dangerous and illegal, it can even be deadly
- If you receive a DUI charge, you may face legal fines, jail time, or other court-mandated consequences
- A DUI charge will negatively affect your auto insurance
There are many circumstances that negatively or positively affect auto insurance. Being aware of what affects your auto insurance rates and coverage is one way to make sure you are getting the best deal that you can as well as saving money.
However, some circumstances not only affect your car insurance but also can have devastating effects on your life and the lives of others.
Read on to learn about DUIs and auto insurance and then be sure to do the proper research and enter your ZIP code in for a free car insurance quote comparison.
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What is a DUI charge?
All 50 states have strict DUI laws.
Anyone who operates a motorized vehicle while intoxicated with alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription drugs is in danger of receiving a DUI.
- When a law enforcement officer notices signs of intoxication while driving such as erratic driving, or visible signs of drinking in the vehicle, they may perform a traffic stop.
- If signs continue during the traffic stop such as a smell of alcohol, slurred speech, or other odd behaviors, the officer can perform a field sobriety test.
- If a driver fails this test, the officer can perform a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) test.
In many states, .08 percent BAC is considered intoxicated while other states have even lower percentages. Some states have a percentage of .02 percent for those under the legal drinking age.
What are the legal ramifications of a DUI charge?
Before worrying about how a DUI affects your auto insurance, the legal ramifications should be noted.
Again, the consequences will depend on the state, judges, if others were injured or killed because of your DUI, or if you have previous DUI charges.
Legal consequences include:
- Fines
- Jail time
- Loss of license for a year
- Loss of license for life
- Court-ordered rehabilitation
For a first time offense with no damage or injury caused, full driving rights may eventually be restored, if your record stays clean. For repeat offenders, full driving rights may never be restored. Car insurance with a bad driving record is harder to get.
Fines can ruin your financial picture as well. Some states will fine those convicted of a DUI up to $24,000.
Regardless of legal ramifications, driving while intoxicated is never a good idea. It is dangerous and can be deadly.
What are the effects of a DUI on car insurance?
Having a DUI on your record automatically classifies you as a high-risk driver.
Being a high-risk driver means that the insurance company is taking a high risk by insuring you because the risk of you causing an accident or needing to file a claim is high.
The higher the risk the higher the cost of insurance.
Other types of high-risk drivers are teenagers, those with multiple accidents, and those who have driven without insurance.
If you have been convicted of a DUI, insurance is still available, but finding a company may be more difficult.
A DUI will stay on your record for at least 3 years or more depending on the state you receive your DUI in. This means that for three years you will be considered a high-risk driver even if you have no other incidents.
Many insurance companies will not insure someone with a DUI charge so finding a company may take some research.
Be sure to let your insurance company know if you received a DUI charge right away. If they find out through the state, they may cancel your insurance without notice.
The easiest way to find a company is to compare rates online using an online comparison tool. You can see rates and policy information side by side so that you can determine how much your insurance coverage will be.
Comparison tools allow you to input your information and receive quotes and rates from several companies. Enter your ZIP into our quote tool to start now!
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Best Rates for DUI Car Insurance
Finding the best DUI car insurance rates online can happen if you are willing to shop around, but it won’t be easy.
Drivers with one DUI pay 41% more for car insurance on average. Lower your rates with discounts for low mileage, safety features, and age ranges.
- Those with a DUI are considered high-risk drivers
- Some companies offer products designed for drivers who have been convicted of a DUI
- The best way to find low premiums is to request quotes and perform price comparisons online
A driver who has been convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs will likely pay high car insurance premiums every month. This is mainly because they are considered high-risk drivers.
People who have had DUIs are more prone to having accidents and causing damage. Insurance companies often impose serious penalties on drivers who have had a DUI.
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Do car insurance companies check driving records?
Car insurance companies often check driving records to make sure their customers are all safe to insure. Typically, insurance companies check DUI conviction records at least once every three years. They also check conviction records when a driver applies for a new insurance policy.
Insurance companies may miss the DUI record at first. However, drivers may lose their policies and be barred from renewing if their insurance company finds out later.
They may be forced to look for another car insurance company. Consumers in states that do not require the SR-22 may be lucky enough to be free from this problem.
They may not face high premiums at first. However, their rates will increase if their insurance companies ever find out.
Drivers with DUIs should not lose hope. Although DUI car insurance is very costly, there are still ways for people with DUIs to obtain cheaper rates.
There are car insurance companies that offer products designed for drivers who have been convicted of driving under the influence. Consumers can find many of these companies online.
They are called non-standard carriers, and they handle high-risk drivers.
Can you get quotes for this type of insurance?
Drivers with DUIs should not be surprised by the initial quotes they get from car insurance companies. They should expect to pay more for their car insurance.
Fortunately, there are several ways for people with DUIs to lower their car insurance.
Consumers should spend extra time and effort looking for companies that specialize in insurance for people with DUIs.
They should ask for quotes from various companies. It is best to compare prices while paying attention to deductibles and coverage limits.
People have a higher chance of finding the most affordable rates if they obtain quotes from a number of companies.
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How can you find lower rates for insurance?
Consumers should review auto insurance quotes carefully. Some may appear to be very cheap, but they may offer limited coverage. People with DUIs can also find added benefits to help lower monthly payments.
- Look for age-related discounts – Most car insurance providers offer discounts for people in a specific age range. This can help in decreasing monthly premiums.
- Install car safety features – Adding accessories like air bags, anti-theft devices and anti-lock brakes can also reduce monthly premiums. Although this can be costly, it can help lower insurance rates. These devices ensure the driver and the car are less prone to having problems.
- Obtain membership in accredited organizations and unions – Some insurance companies offer special rates to certain groups. This can help people with DUIs obtain discounts on their monthly premiums.
- Obtain multiple types of insurance from the same company – People who have DUIs can apply for both home and auto insurance from the same company. By doing so, they may be eligible for big discounts. Insuring multiple cars with the same company may increase rates even further. Combining car insurance with other types of insurance always helps people obtain more favorable rates.
- Keep car mileage low – People who have cars with low mileage can often get discounts. When people only drive short distances, they are less likely to have accidents. Insurance companies give people who have cars with low mileage better rates because the insurers are less likely to have to pay for expenses that come from accidents.
Consumers should check to see if insurance companies have these discounts available. The best DUI car insurance providers offer these discounts for all customers.
Consumers should contact company agents to see if these discounts are available for drivers with DUIs.
Although drivers with DUI convictions are more likely to be rejected by some insurance companies, they can always find an insurance company that will accept them.
Many alternative insurance companies accept drivers with DUIs and offer them competitive rates. These companies also offer discounts for certain people.
The best DUI car insurance companies provide complete information about the choices available for consumers with DUIs.
How do you go about requesting quotes?
Requesting quotes from multiple car insurance companies is the easiest and most convenient way for DUI drivers to find the best rates. With this, they can get more options and become aware of other ways to cut down on costs.
This also provides people with the opportunity to discover non-standard insurers that they may have never heard of before. Small insurers often cater to drivers with DUIs and provide them desirable rates and terms.
In fact, there are many non-standard insurance providers on the market nowadays.
They are the best insurance companies for drivers with DUIs to get quotes from, and they certainly offer discounts to help consumers with DUIs.
On the other hand, standard carriers usually only accommodate consumers with clean driving records. Drivers with DUIs may also get quotes from them, but they almost always offer higher premiums than non-standard insurance companies.
The most important thing that drivers with DUIs should bear in mind is that they always have choices.
Should you compare insurance companies?
There are also companies that specialize in both standard and high-risk drivers, and this makes consumers even more confused. The best way to find low premiums is to request quotes and perform price comparisons online.
Consumers should also educate themselves about their car models and their state laws. Discount programs may not be available in some areas.
Shopping around always makes hunting for the best DUI car insurance quotes a lot easier. Consumers should take advantage of the tools available online.
With non-standard insurance providers, drivers with DUIs can be confident that they have a high chance of getting affordable car insurance rates.
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Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
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Written by
Laura Berry |
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Reviewed by
Joel Ohman
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