Types of Penalties Incurred for DWI Minnesota Convictions
If you have been convicted of DWI in Minnesota, you may be subject to the following punishments:
1st DWI Conviction
• 4th Degree DWI = Misdemeanor
• Imprisonment up to 90 days
• Fine of $1,000
• Driver’s license suspended for up to 90 days
o If BAC at/above .20 percent – 180 days
o If passenger under 16 years of age in vehicle – 180 days
o If a motorist refuses DWI test – 1 year
• May be eligible for a limited license after 15 days if no aggravated charges are incurred
• May be eligible for an ignition interlock device
• Additional fees
o License reinstatement – $250
o License reinstatement surcharge – $430
o Driver’s license application fee – $24
2nd DWI Conviction (If within 10 years of previous DWI)
• 3rd Degree DWI = Misdemeanor
• Imprisonment up to 1 year
• Fine of $3,000
• Driver’s license suspended for 180 days
o If BAC at/above .20 percent – 360 days
o If passenger under 16 years of age in vehicle – 360 days
• May be eligible for a limited license after 90 days if no aggravated charges are incurred
• May be eligible for an ignition interlock device
• Additional fees
o License reinstatement – $250
o License reinstatement surcharge – $430
o Driver’s license application fee – $24
• License plate impounded 1 year and issued special coded plate
3rd DWI Conviction (If within 10 years of previous DWI)
• 2nd Degree DWI = Misdemeanor
• Imprisonment up to 1 year
• Fine of $3,000
• Driver’s license suspended indefinitely
• May be eligible for an ignition interlock device
• Must attend an alcohol/drug treatment program for 1 year
• License plate impounded 1 year and issued special coded plate
4th DWI Conviction (If within 10 years of previous DWI)
• 1st Degree DWI = Felony
• Imprisonment up to 7 years
• Fine of $14,000
Implied Consent Laws in Minnesota
Minnesota has implied consent laws in place, meaning that all motorists are required by law to submit to a chemical test of their blood, urine, or breath if they are arrested for DWI. If a motorist refuses, they will have their driver’s license suspended for 1 year. This law applies to the operation of all motor vehicles, including ATVs, boats, and snowmobiles.
Following the revocation of a driver’s license, a motorist must pay $680 to have it reinstated in addition to completing a DWI knowledge exam, must reapply for a license, and must take a chemical assessment.
Minnesota DWI Laws for Minors
Minnesota has a zero-tolerance policy in effect for minors. Any motorist under the age of 21 who is convicted of DWI in Minnesota may have their license suspended for 6 months. If the motorist committed aggravated DWI (imposed bodily harm or caused the fatality of another) then they may be tried as adults with a criminal charge. Minors may also lose their license for 6 additional months if they refuse to submit to a breath test to determine their BAC level.
New Minnesota DWI Laws
As of 2010, motorists who wish to have restricted driving privileges must install an interlock ignition device in their vehicles. Those who refuse to do so will be prohibited from driving anywhere from 1 to 6 years.
Following Your Arrest
After being arrested for DWI in Minnesota you may be left frightened, confused, and with no one to turn to. We are here to let you know that help is readily available for you. Browse our site to find the best DWI lawyers in Minnesota who will help you fight your charges in court and ensure the best possible outcome for your case.
All of our featured Minnesota DWI attorneys are licensed and have helped thousands of DWI clients overcome their charges. Your paralegal will not rest until your case is tried in court and your penalties are either significantly reduced or your charges are wiped out completely. Rest easy knowing that your DWI lawyer is on your side and will work day and night to protect your rights.
DWI charges can affect you negatively for the rest of your life. Contact one of our elite Minnesota DWI lawyers today to request a free initial consultation and begin fighting your case.
