For many, a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) can potentially be an embarrassing time in a person’s life, a moment they want to keep private. Unfortunately, if you have been convicted of drunk driving, you may need to disclose this information at your current job or when you apply for jobs.
Applying For A Job
A common question on job applications is, “Have you have ever been arrested?” If you have ever been convicted of drunk driving, you will need to answer “yes.” Other applications will inquire if you’ve been convicted of a crime, which you will also need to answer “yes” and disclose your misdemeanor or felony conviction.
Be sure you read these forms carefully, as an arrest is separate from conviction. If you were arrested for a DUI (or similar charge such as a DWI, OUI, or OWI), but never convicted of a crime, you can answer “no” when asked if you’ve ever been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony. You can also answer “no” if you were convicted of a DUI but later had the charge expunged. Keep in mind that most state-issued professional licenses, law enforcement positions, school jobs or public office positions will require you to disclose an expunged conviction.
Remember, you should never lie on a job application. Falsifying a job application could work against you in two ways: First, it provides the employer with grounds for termination. Second, a false statement also puts you as an employee at risk by preventing you from filing any claims against the company if you were to encounter any workplace violations.
Informing Your Employer
If you are employed at the time of your DUI arrest or conviction, there’s no federal or state law that requires you to inform your employer. However, your employment contract may require you to state that any failure to disclose an arrest or conviction will be grounds for termination. If your job involves operating a company vehicle, you will be required to notify your employer. This is because your employer may be held liable if you accidentally injure anyone during job duties.
If you’re required to drive with an ignition interlock device (IID), some states have a work exemption available. This means you may drive an employer’s vehicle without the device as long as you are granted an exemption. You must apply for an employer exemption and obtain an SR-22, which provides insurance coverage to high-risk individuals. In these instances, vehicles must be owned and maintained by your employer, and the car must never be driven for personal use. You will more than likely have restrictions on when and where you allowed to drive with this exemption.
You may want to consider notifying your employer even if there’s not a specific company policy requiring the disclosure of your DUI. Your employer may appreciate the honesty and can rule out any liabilities that you may not be aware of, keeping both you and your company safe. Questions of this nature come up frequently, and if your employer asks you directly about any arrests or convictions, it is to your benefit to be honest. Lying to your employer can be grounds for termination.
Moving on from a DUI can be difficult, but going through the proper procedures as required by law and your employer’s company policy is always the best option.
Many states require a DUI traffic school or driving school course as part of DUI penalties ordered by a judge during sentencing. In some cases, this education program may be optional to help reduce your DUI penalties, reinstate your license more quickly or remove points from your driving record. In other circumstances, it will be mandatory. Let’s review more about these DUI programs below.
What Are DUI Traffic School Programs?
Traffic school and driving school are broad terms that can apply to a variety of driver education programs. For our purposes here, these terms interchangeably describe a driving education program completed as part of the penalties for a drunk driving conviction, either as part of your sentence from the court or to alleviate other penalties.
These programs are required after a drunk driving conviction (or possibly another alcohol- or driving-related offense) because the state where you live uses these courses to encourage safer driving behavior in the future and reduce DUI recidivism.
Sometimes, DUI traffic school or DUI driving classes are integrated into a larger state-mandated alcohol treatment program, and sometimes they operate as standalone programs.
State-Specific DUI Traffic School Rules
As with all DUI penalties, DUI education program requirements vary widely by state. DUI driving school is mandatory for all offenders, including first-time offenders in some states, while in other states or circumstances, it is ordered by a judge.
Additionally, DUI traffic school is technically an optional program to help get back on the road faster or to reduce other penalties in some states or circumstances. These programs are intended to discourage drunk driving and help participants become safer drivers by teaching about the dangers of drunk driving and other safe driving techniques.
In some cases, integrating with counseling or treatment options for alcohol addiction. In California, for instance, DUI traffic school is a classroom-style course that focuses on educating about the dangers of drunk driving and can vary in length from a 12-hour class completed in one month for the least serious offenses to as much as 30 months for third-time DUIs (or second-time with very high BAC) and beyond.
Course Options For DUI School
In California, Arizona, Alaska, Texas, Iowa and other states, an online option for DUI traffic school is available for drivers to take from home. In some states, there may also be a DVD or on-demand streaming option.
These online or DVD courses typically consist of some combination of a textbook/workbook, audio or video lectures and quizzes or a final exam. In most states, there is also a classroom DUI driver’s school course available through state-approved driver education providers.
Typically, you’ll have to listen to lectures or read about the dangers of drunk driving and then demonstrate your comprehension by taking some sort of exam(s). You may also be asked to hear from people whose lives have been negatively impacted by drunk driving.
How Much Does DUI Traffic School Cost?
DUI classes typically cost between $30 and $50. You can receive financial assistance based on your income in some states. For longer-term courses that also integrate with alcohol treatment programs, fees are substantially higher.
Once you successfully complete the course, the provider will give you a certificate or other proof of completion, which you may be able to submit to the court or your state’s DMV to reduce your penalties, expunge your drunk driving offense from your record or regain driving privileges. It can also help reduce your car insurance premium.
Consult with your legal representation to ensure you meet DUI traffic school requirements to reduce your DUI penalties and can get back to driving as quickly as possible after your DUI.
If you need assistance with DUI-related tasks, DUI.org can help – call us now at (833) 386-8923 to speak to a DUI state specialist.
If it’s your first time in a courtroom, remember that you’re not alone. Court is an unfamiliar place for many people who receive their first DUI, DWI, OUI or OWI, but it can also be the place where you successfully defend case. It’s important to know what to expect when your DUI court date arrives — the last thing you want on your court date is a surprise. There are usually several proceedings following a suspected DUI arrest: an arraignment, a preliminary hearing and the trial. Here’s what to expect at each stage of your DUI Court process.
Arraignment
An arraignment is a pre-trial proceeding that’s also referred to as an initial DUI court appearance. An arraignment occurs in a lower court where you, the defendant, will hear the charges brought against you, along with the criminal sentence if you are convicted. You will submit a plea of guilty or not guilty at your arraignment. If you submit a guilty plea, the judge may set a sentencing date, and this will be your final day in DUI court. If you plead not guilty, a court date will be established. It is advised that you hire a private or state-appointed attorney if you wish to proceed to a hearing or trial, as they have the expertise to defend your case. If you plan on fighting your charges, you may need to post bail.
DUI Preliminary Hearing
A DUI preliminary hearing will be held if you plead not guilty to the drunk driving charges brought against you in the arraignment. A state prosecutor, or state attorney, will present all the known facts to your case. They will use police reports and may even call any eye witnesses to undercut your case and prevent it from moving forward to a trial. If the prosecutor doesn’t have sufficient evidence against you, the judge will then determine if your case will be dismissed or if it needs to go to trial.
Trial
During a DUI trial, a state prosecutor will once again provide all prior evidence, new evidence and any testimonies they have against you, and you or your attorney will use any resources available to defend your case in front of a jury. After closing arguments, the jury will deliberate and arrive at a verdict. If the jury’s decision is not unanimous, the judge will call for a retrial to be held at a later date or declare a mistrial. If a mistrial is declared, the case will be dismissed and the charges against you will be dropped.
After the DUI Trial
It’s important that you come to terms with the consequences of your arrest and make necessary plans as soon as possible, even if there’s a chance your charge is dropped. With a drunk driving conviction, you may face several penalties, including fines, public service hours, jail time, installation of an ignition interlock device, alcohol treatment and more.
Here are a few additional tips you should know prior to appearing in DUI court:
Dress professionally. Courts will usually have some form of dress code, and it’s in your best interest to present yourself as respectable and professional as possible. Wear modest clothing and avoid excessive jewelry. Avoid wearing items like sunglasses or hats, as a judge may make you remove them regardless.
Stay organized. Keep all arrest documentation, list of witnesses, declarations, photos/exhibits and any other court papers. If you fill out forms, remember to submit them on time. Make copies of your documents, and retain all original records. Ensure that you have all relevant records on hand at all times.
Know all details of your DUI arrest. Review the police report thoroughly and be sure to ask your attorney if you have any questions regarding your case. Make any notes about your DUI arrest as soon as possible while the event is fresh in your mind.
If you need assistance preparing for your DUI court date, such as finding a DUI attorney, or any other DUI related issue, DUI.org can help — call us now at (833) 386-8923 to speak to a DUI Specialist.
Injury and property damage caused by drunk driving is not an unusual occurrence in the United States, unfortunately. In 2010 alone, the economic price tag of alcohol-related crashes totaled $44 billion. In 2018, 29 percent of all motor vehicle traffic fatalities were caused by drunk driving, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
What Happens When You Crash Your Car and Get a DUI?
Being charged with driving under the influence is a very serious matter. If you’re involved in an automobile accident while under the influence of alcohol, you will likely face more serious legal consequences than if you were arrested for drunk driving only. When an automobile accident is involved with impaired driving, you may be charged with an aggravated DUI. Many factors, including which state the accident occurred in, will be considered when your case is brought to court. Was someone injured? Was there extensive property damage? Did you endanger someone else in your vehicle? Was the collision your fault?
DUI Accident Charges Differ by State
Some states’ drinking and driving laws don’t specify stronger penalties for aggravated DUI offenders who cause property damage or injury, and other states may upgrade the DUI charge from a misdemeanor to a felony. You can also expect to receive more severe treatment from prosecutors and judges if you’re charged with an aggravated DUI. Chances of a favorable plea bargain are reduced, and judges will usually hand out longer sentences if additional damages or injury occurs. If the automobile accident results in a fatality, however, you will most likely receive a jail sentence.
Comparing Standard DUIs vs. Aggravated DUIs
A 2015 survey compared the experiences of drivers who received standard DUIs (DUIs without accidents) to drivers who received aggravated DUIs (involving property damage or injury). The survey showed:
Costs were, on average, $1,000 more expensive for drivers convicted of a DUI that involved a collision.
Prosecutors were 7 percent more likely to file charges against those who had a DUI involving a collision.
Aggravated DUI conviction rates are substantially higher, with an overall conviction rate of 91 percent as opposed to 66 percent for those with standard DUIs.
Along with the legal and financial ramifications of a DUI conviction, you will see a drastic increase in your car insurance rates, especially if a collision is involved.
Depending on the state, an aggravated DUI could also implicate any passengers who were in the vehicle during the accident. If the passenger is of legal driving age and has a blood alcohol concentration of zero, they could also be arrested and charged with reckless endangerment, providing the driver showed obvious signs of intoxication. However, this law is not applicable in all states, so check the drinking and driving laws of the state where you live.
What to Do If You Are Facing DUI Accident Charges
If you are driving while intoxicated and are involved in a collision, you will most likely be considered the negligent driver and cause of the accident. If you feel that this is not the case, you will need to hire a good DUI attorney to help fight these charges and prove that your intoxication did not cause the accident. If you don’t have a good defense, you could end up paying thousands of dollars for any medical or property damage.
If you need assistance with your DUI case, DUI.org Specialists are available to answer questions and help guide you through your requirements. Call us today at (833) 386-8923 to get started.
While drunk driving offenses happen frequently and may not be a felony in many cases, a DUI can have long-lasting effects when determining factors like parental visitation or child custody.
Court impact
When a parent conducts an illegal activity that is considered “reckless,” such as drinking and driving, the court is responsible for determining your ability to properly care for your child.
The court also needs to establish a corrective course of action that maintains the best interests of the children.
However, if you have a history of alcohol or substance abuse or if the child was in the vehicle at the time of your arrest, the courts may issue more severe penalties, including sobriety monitoring, supervised parenting time or removal of custody. If you fail to comply with any of the court-mandated sobriety testing or monitoring, your supervised parenting time may be drastically reduced or suspended.
My ex got a DUI charge. Can I take custody?
While a drinking and driving offense is always a serious matter, a DUI charge does not guarantee that your child custody agreement will change. Speak with a qualified attorney to discuss the custody laws in your state and the circumstances surrounding your ex’s DUI offense to determine if a custody change is likely to occur. The courts will look for details that prove a custody change will benefit child’s health and safety in the long term. If the child was not with the parent at the time of the DUI arrest, or if you cannot prove that the child was or is in danger due to the DUI offense, it may be difficult to convince the courts to take action to alter custody arrangements. If your ex has received prior DUIs, or if they had the child with them at the time of the DUI arrest, you will have a stronger case for emergency custody action.
Contact a Family Law Attorney
If you have concerns with your current custody schedule, and would like to have it altered to fit your needs, contact your DUI or family law attorney to discuss your options.
Even if changes to the child custody arrangement are less severe, a DUI conviction may continue to be used against you if there’s a custody dispute in the future. With the complexities of parental custody and DUI laws, it’s imperative that you hire a qualified DUI lawyer if you’re in the midst of a custody battle to help defend your case and mitigate any additional charges that you may face.
If you need assistance with the DUI process, DUI.org has DUI experts available to speak with you. If you need a referral to a DUI attorney in your area, please call DUI.org at (833) 386-8923.
In many states, one of the steps following a drunk driving arrest (DUI, DWI or OWI) or another alcohol-related arrest is an alcohol assessment, also sometimes called an alcohol evaluation. Alcohol assessments are required for DUI, DWI and OWI cases because state governments are concerned drunk driving indicates general alcohol misuse. Depending on the conclusions of your alcohol assessment, you might be required to complete an alcohol treatment program.
What Is An Alcohol Assessment?
Each state has its own process for alcohol assessments. Many involve talking with a health care professional or completing a written “quiz,” or both, to determine if, in the eyes of the state, you have an alcohol or a substance abuse problem. If the assessment determines that your alcohol use is a problem, your assessment provider may recommend an alcohol treatment program.
When Will I Have To Complete An Alcohol Assessment?
The timeline depends on your state’s laws and your lawyer’s advice. The assessment may be required by legal authorities following your arrest or conviction, or your legal team may recommend it prior to legal proceedings. If you’re not sure if you need an alcohol assessment before your court date, you should seek legal assistance.
In some states, you must complete the assessment before sentencing because the results help the judge determine what penalties to impose. The extent of your alcohol abuse, as determined by the assessment, can result in increased or reduced penalties and requirements. Assessments and treatment programs help with participating in diversionary programs or receiving a deferred sentence. In some states, the assessment is required within a particular window following sentencing as a condition of probation.
What Will I Have To Do?
Again, the exact details of an alcohol assessment vary by state, but they’ll always involve answering questions about your alcohol use and history, and may also touch on drug use. A typical example of a written assessment is the World Health Organization’s ASSIST assessment, but states have their own individual tests, too.
In Michigan, for instance, an alcohol assessment involves speaking in-person with a counselor to screen for an assessment, then answering a series of questions. In Wisconsin, the assessment consists of a one-on-one interview with a counselor. Regardless of where you live, you’ll likely do some Q&A with a counselor and may also complete written or multiple choice questions. Some states require you to take a drug test.
Alcohol assessment locations vary based on your state’s regulations and the facilities available in your state, county or city. Typical locations are county health and human services department offices, health clinics and treatment centers. You can expect the assessment to take 30 to 60 minutes, but the length will vary based on how in-depth your discussion gets.
Depending on whether your assessment involves a drug test or not, you may get results right away. The assessment provider may be able to “score” your results in a matter of a few minutes. In most states, the DMV or court receives a copy of your assessment results.
Once your assessment results have been passed on to the DMV or court system, an administrative authority determines next steps, including evaluating whether the assessment and treatment plan (if any) are appropriate and if the assessor recommends you for a driver’s license.
If your alcohol assessment indicates that your drunk driving incident was an isolated case of one mistake, you may not be required to enter a treatment program. If your assessment does indicate your arrest is part of a pattern of alcohol misuse, you’ll likely have to enter a treatment program.
What Happens If The Ruling Includes A Treatment Program?
If your alcohol assessment includes a recommendation for a treatment program, state laws determine when, how and for how long you’ll participate in this program. If you need to find a treatment program, DUI.org can help you.
Treatment programs vary by state, the nature of your arrest and the severity of your alcohol misuse (as indicated in your assessment). A program could be in-patient or out-patient and might include Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, drug and alcohol testing, a risk reduction plan, a safe driving plan and group treatment.
For example, California’s treatment plans vary by how many drunk driving offenses you have, your BAC at the time of arrest and if your drunk driving arrest also included a reckless driving charge. California treatment programs range from three months to 30 months and can include as little as 12 hours of counseling or as much as 78 hours.
Depending on your sentence, a judge may review your case again after completion of a treatment program or completion may be a term of your probation or the reinstatement of your driving privileges. If your driving privileges are reinstated, you’ll need to prepare to get back on the road with SR-22 insurance and by meeting ignition interlock device requirements. We’re here to provide the resources you need.
Your DUI Sentencing – What it Means for Your Future
The first step after receiving a DUI sentence is to understand the specific penalties you’ve been handed. DUI sentences can vary widely depending on whether it’s a first offense, your level of intoxication, and whether there were aggravating factors like an accident or injury. DUI penalties might include fines, jail time, probation, community service, installation of an IID, or mandatory participation in DUI education programs. Your lawyer should explain these details to you, ensuring you know exactly what is expected.
It’s normal to feel a range of emotions after a DUI sentence—guilt, fear, and anxiety are common. It’s crucial to acknowledge these feelings and seek support. Talking to family, friends, or a professional counselor can help you process your emotions and plan your next steps. Remember, you’re not alone, and there are resources available to help you through this difficult time.
DUI Fines and Financial Penalties
Breakdown of Common DUI Fines
Fines for DUI offenses can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. First-time offenders may face smaller fines but repeat offenders or those involved in more severe incidents will likely face steeper financial penalties. In addition to the fine, you may also be responsible for court costs, legal fees, and other expenses like the cost of installing an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. For more detailed information, visit our budgeting page.
Payment Plans and Options
If the fines are substantial and you’re concerned about how to pay them, many courts offer payment plans. It’s important to discuss this with the court clerk or your attorney. Failure to pay fines on time can lead to additional penalties, including extended probation or even jail time, so it’s crucial to stay on top of these payments.
Jail Time and Alternatives
Serving Time after a DUI
If your sentence includes jail time, it’s important to understand what this will entail. Jail time for DUI offenses can range from a few days to several months, depending on the severity of the offense. You’ll need to prepare for this by arranging for someone to take care of your responsibilities, such as work or family obligations.
Home Confinement or Electronic Monitoring
In some cases, especially for first-time offenders, courts may allow alternatives to traditional jail time, such as home confinement or electronic monitoring. With home confinement, you’re required to stay at home except for approved activities like work or court-ordered programs. Electronic monitoring involves wearing a device that tracks your location. While these options can be less disruptive than jail, they come with financial costs as well as strict rules and limitations.
Probation and Compliance
Understanding Probation Terms
Probation is a common component of DUI sentences. This typically involves regular check-ins with a probation officer, random drug or alcohol testing, and attending any required programs or counseling sessions. It’s vital to adhere strictly to the terms of your probation, as any violations can result in more severe penalties, including jail time.
Common Pitfalls
Many people unintentionally violate probation by missing appointments, failing a drug test, or not meeting requirements. To avoid these pitfalls, keep a detailed calendar of all your probation requirements and make them a priority. If you encounter any issues that may affect your compliance, contact your probation officer immediately.
License Suspension and Driving Restrictions
Dealing with License Suspension
A DUI conviction often results in the suspension of your driver’s license, which can last anywhere from a few months to several years. This can significantly impact your daily life, making it challenging to get to work, run errands, or fulfill other responsibilities. However, in some states, you may be eligible for a restricted or hardship license that allows you to drive to specific places, like work or school.
Ignition Interlock Devices
In many cases, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. This device requires you to pass a breathalyzer test before your car will start. The cost of installation and maintenance of this device is typically your responsibility. Staying compliant with the interlock device requirements is crucial, as tampering with it or failing to use it properly can lead to further legal trouble.
Common Requirements to Reinstate Your Driver’s License After a DUI
Requirements vary according to local regulations or judicial discretion.
Installing an ignition interlock device (IID)
Filing an insurance SR-22 proof of financial responsibility form
Getting a professional alcohol-use assessment
Completing a DUI driver’s education course
Paying all outstanding fines and penalties
Other requirements may apply
DUI Education Programs
Court-Ordered Programs
As part of your DUI sentence, you may be required to attend DUI education or treatment programs. These programs are designed to educate you about the dangers of impaired driving and help you make better choices in the future. They may involve attending classes, counseling sessions, or support groups.
Completion and Certification
It’s essential to complete these programs as ordered by the court. Upon completion, you’ll receive a certificate that you must submit to the court or your probation officer. Failing to complete these programs can result in extended probation or additional penalties, so make sure you fulfill this requirement on time.
Long-Term Consequences
Impact on Employment
A DUI conviction can have long-term consequences on your employment, particularly if your job requires driving or involves operating heavy machinery. It may also affect your ability to obtain certain professional licenses. If you’re concerned about how this conviction will impact your job, consider discussing the situation with a legal professional who can advise you on your rights and options.
Insurance and Financial Impact
A DUI conviction on your driving record will likely lead to a substantial increase in your auto insurance premiums, and some companies may even choose not to renew your policy. In many states, drivers are required to file an SR-22 or FR-44, which confirms you have the necessary coverage after a DUI. It’s crucial to shop around for an insurance provider willing to offer coverage but be prepared for higher costs. However, specialized SR-22 insurance providers can help you find more affordable rates despite the DUI on your record.
SR-22 and FR-44 Insurance Certificate Requirements
SR-22 and FR-44 are both certificates of financial responsibility that prove you meet your state’s minimum insurance requirements after a DUI or other serious driving offense. The SR-22 is commonly required in most states, while the FR-44 is specific to Florida and Virginia and typically requires higher liability coverage limits than the SR-22. These filings are usually mandated for a set period, often three years, and your insurance provider submits them on your behalf. Asking for this also notifies your current insurer that you may have a new incident on your driving record. Some insurance companies may raise rates higher than others after they learn of your DUI. That’s why it’s helpful to work with a specialized SR-22 or FR-44 insurance provider to ensure you stay compliant and potentially save on premium costs.
Moving Forward After a DUI Conviction
Rebuilding Your Life
After a DUI conviction, it’s important to focus on rebuilding your life and making positive changes. This might involve seeking help for substance abuse issues, avoiding situations where you might be tempted to drink and drive, and surrounding yourself with supportive people who encourage healthy choices. Remember, while a DUI conviction is a serious matter, it doesn’t define your entire life.
Expungement Possibilities
In some cases, it may be possible to have a DUI conviction expunged from your record. Expungement laws vary by state, so it’s important to consult with a lawyer who specializes in this area. If you’re eligible, expungement can help you move forward with a clean slate, free from the long-term stigma of a DUI conviction.
Understanding what to expect and taking proactive steps to comply with your sentence, you can begin the process of moving forward from your DUI.
If you’ve been arrested for a DUI in Oklahoma, recent changes to state law have introduced the Impaired Driving Accountability Program (IDAP), which took effect on November 1, 2022. This program is designed to help those with DUI-related arrests regain driving privileges through the use of an ignition interlock device (IID). The IDAP program, administered by the Oklahoma Board of Tests (BOT), plays a crucial role in ensuring public safety and preventing repeat offenses.
Here’s what you need to know about Oklahoma’s BOT IDAP and how it can affect DUI charges for you or other Oklahoma drivers.
What is BOT IDAP?
BOT IDAP is an ignition interlock program required for all DUI-related arrests after November 1, 2022. The program is mandatory for those who want to regain driving privileges in Oklahoma. The core requirement of the program is the installation of an IID in your vehicle, which must remain installed for a designated period based on the number of DUI offenses you have on record.
The cost of enrolling in the program is $150, and additional fees will apply for the installation and maintenance of the IID.
Program Lengths Based on Offenses
The length of time you’re required to participate in the BOT IDAP program depends on your number of offenses:
Second offense: A minimum of one year with an active ignition interlock device.
Third and subsequent offenses: A minimum of two years days with an active ignition interlock device.
It’s important to note that program lengths cannot be served concurrently—each offense carries its own period.
How the Program Works
Participants must comply with BOT IDAP’s rules for the entire program period, including the following:
Your vehicle must remain equipped with an ignition interlock device for the entire period.
The device must remain powered and operational throughout the program.
If you park your vehicle or switch to a vehicle without an IID, you will not successfully complete the program.
The device must not enter “permanent lockout” status. If it does, you will not complete the program.
Failure to comply with any of these requirements will result in program failure, and you may be required to restart the process from the beginning.
Steps to Complete the BOT IDAP Program
The BOT IDAP program includes several key steps:
Apply for BOT IDAP: If you’ve received a Notice of Revocation from Service Oklahoma, you must apply for the BOT IDAP program.
Install the Ignition Interlock Device: You must have an IID installed in your vehicle by an approved service provider.
Complete Enrollment with BOT: After the IID is installed, you need to complete your enrollment with the Oklahoma Board of Tests.
Obtain a Restricted Driver’s License: After installing the IID, you can obtain a restricted driver’s license from Service Oklahoma.
Complete the Program: To finish the program, you must meet the active ignition interlock days and demonstrate compliance with program rules.
Once you’ve completed the program requirements, you can apply for a Certificate of Completion .
Affordability Accommodations for BOT IDAP Participants
For those facing financial challenges, Oklahoma offers affordability accommodations. If you receive benefits from programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), you may qualify for reduced costs. Participants who meet the affordability requirements may receive credits toward their IID fees.
Employer Vehicle Exceptions
Participants who drive company vehicles for work may be eligible for an employer vehicle exception, allowing them to drive a vehicle without an IID in certain circumstances. This exception applies only to vehicles owned or leased by the employer and is available to those enrolled in a 180-day program. The exception only grants Class D driving privileges and requires written, notarized requests from the employer.
Program and Device Violations
It’s important to comply with all program rules. Violations such as skipping startup tests, tampering with the device, or failing to power the IID can result in penalties, including extended time in the program or permanent lockout status.
If a violation occurs, you have five days to return to the service center before the IID enters permanent lockout, which prevents the vehicle from starting.
Completing the BOT IDAP Program
To successfully complete the program, you must meet the following requirements:
Fulfill the active ignition interlock days based on your offense.
Have no interlock violations within the final 90 days of the program.
Demonstrate full compliance with all program rules.
If you’ve completed the program and need a certificate, you can request one through the BOT.
Plan Ahead and Stay Compliant
If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Oklahoma, the BOT IDAP program is a critical step in regaining your driving privileges. By understanding the program requirements and ensuring compliance, you can successfully complete the program and get back on the road safely.
For more information or assistance with the BOT IDAP process, call DUI.org today. We can help connect you with an approved IID provider and guide you through the steps to meet your legal obligations.
It’s no secret that many teenagers experiment with alcohol. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 28% of kids aged 12-20 reported drinking in the past year, and 14% reported drinking in the past month.
While some teens think underage drinking is harmless, it has been proven to have lasting negative effects on brain development. Even more concerning is the risk of underage drinking and driving. Many teens may feel they’re fine to drive after a few drinks, but they often fail to recognize the signs of impairment. This makes the decision to drive after drinking even more dangerous.
Whether it’s called DUI, OWI, or DWI, underage drinking and driving is illegal and extremely risky. The health risks and legal consequences become far more severe when teens combine drinking with getting behind the wheel. In fact, 30% of teens involved in fatal crashes had consumed alcohol. Let’s break down the legal consequences of underage drinking and driving, as well as one proven way to help prevent it.
Drunk Driving Charges Under 21
Driving under the influence is illegal in all 50 states, and so is drinking under the age of 21. This means that underage drivers caught drinking and driving are breaking multiple laws, leading to harsh legal consequences. Penalties for underage DUI can include:
Major fines
Driver’s license suspension or revocation
Mandatory DUI education programs
Jail time or juvenile detention
The severity of penalties varies by state and depends on factors like prior convictions and the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of the arrest. Most states enforce stricter BAC limits for drivers under 21, sometimes as low as 0.00%, compared to the standard 0.08% for adults (or 0.05% in Utah).
In some cases, first-time offenders may receive more lenient treatment if their BAC was low at the time of arrest. Courts might offer alternatives to jail time, such as community service, probation, or alcohol treatment programs. These alternatives can help young drivers avoid having the conviction on their permanent record, which is critical for things like college applications, scholarships, and job opportunities. However, repeat offenses lead to much harsher penalties with fewer chances for leniency.
Zero-Tolerance Laws
Zero-tolerance laws are specifically designed for underage drivers, with most states enforcing much lower BAC limits for anyone under 21. While the standard legal BAC limit for drivers over 21 is 0.08%, underage drivers can face penalties with BAC levels as low as 0.02%, or even 0.01% in some states.
These zero-tolerance laws are meant to discourage any level of drinking before driving. The presence of even a small amount of alcohol in an underage driver’s system can lead to major legal trouble. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, zero-tolerance laws have been effective in reducing underage drinking and driving incidents and related fatalities.
Voluntary Car Breathalyzers for Teens
A proven way to prevent all drinking and driving, including that by underaged drivers, is by using a voluntary ignition interlock device (IID), commonly known as a car breathalyzer. These devices, which can be installed in any vehicle, require the driver to provide an alcohol-free breath sample before the car will start, helping to ensure your teen isn’t driving under the influence.
For parents, voluntary IIDs offer peace of mind by promoting safe driving habits and helping teens resist peer pressure. They also provide critical support for teens who may be struggling with alcohol use. Since these devices are not court-mandated, no government monitoring is involved, and special pricing options are available for voluntary installations.
At DUI.org, we offer resources and guidance for families interested in installing a voluntary IID to keep their teens safe and responsible on the road. Call DUI.org today for help with ignition interlock devices and other state requirements.
Recreational vehicles like ATVs, boats, and snowmobiles provide great outdoor fun, but operating these vehicles under the influence of alcohol comes with serious legal consequences. Driving these vehicles while intoxicated is just as illegal as driving a car and can lead to DUI charges with significant penalties.
ATVs and Driving Under the Influence
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, ATVs and off-highway vehicles (OHVs) are involved in roughly 800 fatalities each year in the U.S., with intoxication playing a significant role in many of these incidents. Driving off-road vehicles while impaired not only puts lives at risk but can also result in DUI charges.
State Laws for Recreational Vehicle DUIs
Each state has its own laws about DUIs involving recreational vehicles, but in all 50 states, driving intoxicated on ATVs, snowmobiles, or motorboats is illegal. Penalties are often similar to those for standard vehicle DUIs and can include fines, license suspension, and even jail time. However, the details vary by state:
Washington: The severity of penalties depends on whether you’re on public land or private property, with harsher consequences for public road offenses.
California: Surprisingly, it’s even illegal to operate a hoverboard on public sidewalks while intoxicated.
Delaware:Boating under the influence (BUI) is taken very seriously, and law enforcement officers don’t need probable cause to stop and board your boat.
Whether you’re on land or water, if the vehicle has an engine, you can likely be charged with a DUI. It’s essential to know your state’s DUI laws and stay informed about any updates.
Minnesota’s Tougher Off-Road DWI Laws
In Minnesota, laws have recently been tightened following a tragic accident involving a snowmobile. If convicted of a DWI while operating a snowmobile or ATV, your privileges to operate these vehicles will be suspended for one year, and your motorboat privileges will be suspended for 90 days. Additionally, first-time offenders no longer get exceptions, and an off-road DWI will result in a full revocation of your driver’s license.
Minnesota now also mandates or allows the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) following a DWI conviction for recreational vehicle operation, giving you the opportunity to regain your driving privileges sooner.
DUI.org Can Help
If you’re facing DUI charges related to operating a recreational vehicle, DUI.org can guide you through your legal options, penalties, and how to regain your driving privileges. We offer support and resources to help you understand the process, whether you need to navigate ignition interlock requirements, legal advice, or license reinstatement. Reach out to DUI.org for help moving forward after a DUI.
