Connecticut OUI Laws
Connecticut refers to drinking and driving related convictions as an OUI or operating under the influence. You can be arrested for an OUI if you have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or greater. An OUI arrest is a serious drunk driving crime that will result in fines and penalties as outlined below.
Legal limit in Connecticut:
- Standard, non-commercial drivers: 0.08% BAC
- Commercial drivers: 0.04% BAC
- Drivers under 21: 0.02% BAC
Penalties, Fines, & Suspension
| Connecticut OUI Penalties, Fines, & Suspension | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Penalty | 1st offense | 2nd offense | 3rd offense |
| Sentence | 2 days to 6 months | 120 days to 2 years | 1 to 3 years |
| Fine | $500 to $1,000 | $1,000 to $4,000 | $2,000 to $8,000 |
| Driver’s License Suspension | 1 year | 1 year | Indefinite |
Chemical Test Refusal
Connecticut’s implied consent law states that, by driving, you have given your consent to a chemical test. This test is taken by blood, breath or urine to determine blood alcohol content. If someone refuses this test, they will be subject to a license suspension.
1st offense: 6 months license suspension
2nd offense: 1 year license suspension
3rd offense: 3 year license suspension
Ignition Interlock
All alcohol related convictions in Connecticut will result in immediate installation of an IID or ignition interlock device in the offender’s vehicle. This device will act as a breathalyzer, preventing the car’s ignition to start without a legal BAC. The charts below specify how long an IID will be required for each circumstance.
Criminal Record
How long does a OUI stay on your record? A OUI in Connecticut will remain on your personal criminal record for 10 years. During this time, a drinking and driving offense will remain relevant and could be used against you in a court of law.
Under 21
Operating a vehicle under the influence and under the age of 21 will result in harsh penalties. After a first conviction, offenders will face a license suspension of 1 year. After a second conviction, offenders must either wait until they turn 21 to regain license or wait 3 years, whichever is longer. Any other offenses after that will result in a permanent revocation of license.
DWI with a Child Passenger
Child endangerment is a serious crime in Connecticut. Violators will suffer additional punishments to their OUI conviction if arrested with a minor in the car. These include a sentence from 30 days to 1 year, 100 hours of community service, undergo a treatment program as well as a fine from $500 to $2,000. Additional penalties could arise based on specific situation.
More on CT OUI laws:
Connecticut Department of Motor Vechicles: Drunk Driving Law: http://www.ct.gov/dmv/cwp/view.asp?a=813&q=249562