DUI / DWI Laws in Your State

In all 50 states, it’s a crime to drive while intoxicated or impaired by drugs, alcohol, or a combination of the two. The crime is commonly called “DUI” (driving under the influence), but many states use different terms for the offense—including “DWI” (driving while intoxicated or impaired), “OUI” (operating under the influence), “OWI” (operating while intoxicated), and “DWAI” (driving while ability impaired).

The elements of the offense are defined virtually the same way in every state, and almost every state has set a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 percent as the yardstick for drunk driving. But there are key differences among the states when it comes to the details of driving under the influence.

Penalties—including jail terms, fines, license suspension, and mandatory ignition interlocks—vary by jurisdiction, and according to whether it's a first or repeat offense. And most states also have different rules on when and how you can fight a DUI charge, or get it reduced to a less serious offense.