All About DUI and DWI

It's known as Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in some jurisdictions, Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in others, and Operating Under the Influence in a limited number of states (OUI). (At this location, it's usually referred to as "DUI.") Driving when under the influence of alcohol to the point that it impairs your physical and mental faculties, or driving with a blood-alcohol level of.08 or higher, regardless of whether the alcohol has had any effect on you, is considered a criminal offense. The crime is often referred to as "drinking driving," even though the term has no legal meaning and is a misnomer because you do not have to be drunk (or driving) to be arrested and convicted of DUI. You can read here about the latest DUI celebrity arrests.

How Much Does a DUI Cost for a First Offense?

We polled readers from around the country who had been convicted for a first-time DUI to see how much they paid to get their case dismissed.

If I get a second DUI, what can I expect?

Even for a first offense, the effects of a DUI are often severe. Second-time DUI offenders face much harsher punishments.

If I get a third DUI, what can I expect?

When does a third DUI count as a felony? What are the consequences if I'm found guilty?

What Is a "Hardship" or "Limited" License?

When your driver's license is revoked due to a DUI or another traffic offense, you will be able to get a hardship license to drive to and from work and school.

Obtaining Employment After a DUI Conviction

Many employers will look at your driving record, and others will use it to make hiring decisions.

Testing for Drunk Driving

Costs and Specifications for Ignition Interlock Systems

Learn how ignition interlock devices (IIDs) operate, how much they cost, and what happens if you try to escape detection by tampering with or fooling one.

Breathalyzer Checks for DUI

Learn how police use breathalyzers to prove a driver's blood alcohol content (BAC) in court, as well as the repercussions of refusing a breath test

Laws on Drunk Driving

Driving When Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drug

Any state makes it illegal to drive when under the influence of drugs. Learn how DUI/DWI regulations work when a driver is caught driving when under the influence of drugs.

The Open Container Laws in California

California's open container laws make it illegal to consume or possess empty containers of alcohol or marijuana while driving. Learn about the nuances of these rules, as well as the repercussions of violating them.

The Open Container Rules in North Carolina

The open container laws in North Carolina make it illegal to carry an open container of alcohol in a vehicle's passenger compartment.

The Open Container Law in Michigan

The open container law in Michigan makes it illegal for both drivers and passengers to carry or possess an open container of alcoholic liquor in a car. Learn about the information, such as exceptions and fines.