DUI and DWI Law
Driving under the influence of alcohol or other impairing drugs is a crime in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Whether your state calls it "driving under the influence" (DUI), "driving while intoxicated" (DWI), or some other name, courts take the charge very seriously and punish accordingly.
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Understanding DUI Laws
For DUI law purposes, you’re “impaired” if your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle is appreciably affected by having consumed alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription drugs.
Everyone is affected differently by different substances. As a result, per se DUI laws set measurable legal limits. Being over the limit can lead to a DUI arrest, DUI charges and going through a DUI court procedure. You can find an overview of DUI laws and helpful resources, or learn about the topics below.
DUI State Laws
In 2000, Congress passed a law requiring each state to set its BAC limit at 0.08% and establish the drinking age at 21. You can find the nuances of your state’s laws by using the map below: