{"id":376520,"date":"2016-03-31T21:36:48","date_gmt":"2016-04-01T02:36:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/state\/tennessee-law\/what-are-the-tennessee-dui-laws.html"},"modified":"2024-04-02T22:51:05","modified_gmt":"2024-04-03T03:51:05","slug":"what-are-the-tennessee-dui-laws","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/tennessee-law\/what-are-the-tennessee-dui-laws.html","title":{"rendered":"Tennessee DUI Laws"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Tennessee DUI Laws<\/h1>\n
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\n By Amy Vandervort-Clark, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Melissa Bender, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

It’s well known that driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol is dangerous. You may end up arrested or even cause personal injury to another. It’s difficult to guess your blood alcohol level. If you are drinking, it’s best not to drive.<\/p>\r\n

Despite this knowledge, DUIs are still one of the most frequent arrests<\/a> made in Tennessee. Whether it’s due to a poor choice, thinking you’re not intoxicated, or a more serious issue, DUIs are a severe public health problem.<\/p>\r\n

Tennessee is trying to reduce its drugged and drunk driver statistics by enacting more comprehensive laws. While even a first-time conviction will earn you time in jail, a judge can have you complete a substance abuse assessment, which can help you get treatment if needed.<\/p>\r\n

Here is more information about Tennessee DUI Laws:<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits and Implied Consent<\/p>\r\n<\/th>\r\n<\/tr>

"Per Se" BAC Limit<\/a><\/td>\r\n0.08%<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>
Zero Tolerance (Underage) BAC Limit<\/a><\/td>\r\n0.02%<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>
Enhanced Penalty (Aggravated) BAC Limit<\/a><\/td>\r\n0.2%<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>
Implied Consent<\/a> to Submit to BAC Test?<\/td>\r\nYes<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>
 <\/td>\r\n<\/tr>

Select Penalties<\/p>\r\n<\/th>\r\n<\/tr>

Minimum License Suspension or Revocation<\/a> (1st, 2nd, 3rd offense)<\/td>\r\n1 year, 2 years, 6 years<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>
Mandatory Alcohol Education, or Assessment and Treatment<\/a><\/td>\r\nBoth<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>
Vehicle Confiscation<\/a> or Forfeiture Possible?<\/td>\r\nYes, second offense<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>
Ignition Interlock Device<\/a> Possible?<\/td>\r\nYes<\/td>\r\n<\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>\r\n

Disclaimer: <\/b>State laws can change through legislative, judicial, or other means. While FindLaw works hard to ensure the accuracy of its legal resources, it’s a good idea to research the law or check with an attorney to ensure you have the most recent information.<\/i><\/p>\r\n

Tennessee DUI Law<\/h2>\r\n

The state of Tennessee prohibits anyone from driving or being in physical control of any motor vehicle or automobile while:<\/p>\r\n