Michigan DUI Laws

Michigan's DUI/OWI Laws and Conviction Penalties

Read about Michigan's OWI/DUI laws and the penalties you'll face for a first, second, or third conviction.

First-Offense OWI/DUI Penalties in Michigan

In Michigan, a first-offense OWI (operating while intoxicated) generally results in a fine and driver’s license restrictions as well as jail time or community service. (Many people also use the term “driving under the influence” (DUI).)

Michigan Second Offense OWI/DUI

A driver in Michigan may be subject to varying penalties for a second OWI/DUI offense within seven years. If the driver has a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or above, the penalties will be less than if the BAC is .17% or higher.

Michigan Third Offense OWI/DUI

In Michigan, a third OWI (operating while intoxicated) or OWVI (operating while visibly intoxicated) conviction within seven years of when the first offense occurred will likely result in fines, jail time, and driver’s license revocation. The ranges of possible penalties are explained below.

What Is a Felony DUI in Michigan?

Circumstances that can lead to felony DUI charges in Michigan include prior convictions, having a minor passenger, and deaths and injuries

Michigan’s Implied Consent Laws and Penalties for Refusing DUI Testing

Blood and breath tests are often used in DUI investigations to determine blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or the amount of drugs in a driver’s system. Passing one of these tests could lead to exoneration, while failing could help the prosecution prove a DUI in court.

Driving Under the Influence of Drugs in Michigan

What is considered drugged driving in Michigan and what are the penalties if you are convicted?

Michigan’s Underage OWI/DUI Laws and Penalties

Michigan has intoxicated driving laws that prohibit operating a vehicle while under the influence of (OWI) or visibly impaired by (OWVI) alcohol or drugs. These laws apply to everyone, regardless of age. However, drivers who are under the age of 21 can also be convicted of an underage OWI.

Michigan’s Open Container Law and Violation Penalties

Michigan’s open container law prohibits both drivers and passengers from transporting or possessing an open container of alcoholic liquor in a motor vehicle. Read about the specifics, including the exceptions and penalties.

Michigan's Boating Under the Influence (BUI) Laws and Penalties

Michigan law prohibits operating a motorboat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Read about how the offense is defined and the penalties you'll face if convicted of a BUI