DWI Law in the State of North Carolina

First time offenders driving while impaired (DWI) in North Carolina can be proven by the drivers physical or mental fitness. It can also be proven by the driver’s alcohol content level of .08 or higher.

If caught driving while impaired there may be a mandatory revocation of your driver’s license for one year for your first conviction. There will be a fine up to $100 and at least a 24-hour imprisonment sentence; 24-hour of community service; 30 days without a limited driving privilege or any combination of the above. A maximum fine of up to $2000 and at least 14 days or no more than 24 months of imprisonment may also be issued.

DWI offenders in the state of North Carolina must attend a mandatory alcohol safety school and/or attend a substance abuse treatment program. Anyone refusing to take the required test will be subject to immediate revocation of his or her driver’s license for at least 30 days. There will also be a minimum 12-month revocation by the DMV.

If your blood alcohol concentration is found to be higher than .16 an ignition interlock device will be installed on your vehicle. Anyone under the age of 21 that is convicted of driving while having any amount of alcohol in their system will lose their license for one year.

For 2006 a new law was enacted that will raise the fees for all having to take the mandatory safety school class.