Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed August 18, 2016
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Illinois law is quite strict with regard to driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or other impairing substances. Even if you are not convicted of the crime, you will lose your driver's license for one year if you refuse to submit to a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) test -- or three years if you refuse a second time. And if you are convicted of DUI in Illinois, you may be sentenced to as much as one year in jail and a $2,500 fine for the first offense. If you are a first-time offender, you may apply for a breath alcohol ignition interlock device (BAIID) to use for driving to work and other destinations deemed necessary.
While it's best to avoid DUI charges altogether, this article will help you better understand the law and plan your next steps should you get arrested.
Illinois DUI Laws: Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits and Implied Consent |
|
| "Per Se" BAC Limit | 0.08 Percent |
| Zero Tolerance (Underage) BAC Limit | 0.00 Percent |
| Enhanced Penalty (Aggravated) BAC Limit | 0.16 Percent |
| Implied Consent to Submit to BAC Test? | Yes |
Illinois DUI Laws: Select Penalties |
|
| Minimum License Suspension or Revocation (1st, 2nd, 3rd offense) | Pre-conviction: 3 months / 1 year / 1 year; Post-conviction: 1 year / 5 years / 10 years |
| Mandatory Alcohol Education, Assessment and Treatment | Both |
| Vehicle Confiscation Possible? | Yes |
| Ignition Interlock Device Possible? | Yes (Required for repeat offenders, and often when granting restricted license) |
Note: State laws are always changing through legislative, judicial, or other means. While FindLaw works hard to ensure the accuracy of its legal resources, it's a good idea to thoroughly research the law or check with an attorney to make sure you have the most recent information.
If you are arrested for driving under the influence, the prosecution will use its considerable resources to make sure it gets a conviction. Therefore, you'll probably want to hire an attorney. Even if you don't challenge the underlying charges, your attorney will know how to secure the best possible outcome. Learn more about your legal options today by
Contact a qualified DUI attorney to make sure your rights are protected.
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many attorneys offer free consultations.