Hawaii DUI Laws

In Hawaii, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a crime. Hawaii enforces a “presumed law” which states that any person who operates a vehicle on a public road in Hawaii is deemed to have given his consent to have his breath, blood, and urine tested for alcohol concentration or drug content. If you get caught driving while intoxicated in Hawaii, you face license suspension, fines, and even imprisonment.

What is the blood alcohol concentration level (BAC) limit in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, it is a crime to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration level (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. If you get caught driving with a BAC of 0.18% or higher, you will be classified as a “highly intoxicated driver.” You will receive an automatic six month license revocation and you will not be able to apply for a conditional license.

In Hawaii what is the administrative license suspension period for a first offense?

In Hawaii, if you get arrested for DUI, the administrative license suspension time for a first offense is 3 months. Under administrative license suspension, the drivers’ license will be taken before conviction when he either fails or refuses to be tested for alcohol or drugs. During the 3 month revocation period, the driver may obtain a limited license after 30 days if he was not classified as a “highly intoxicated driver” at the time of the offense. 

In Hawaii, what are the penalties for a first DUI offense? Second offense?

In Hawaii, the penalties for DUI convictions may or may not include interlock. A first DUI offense carries a penalty of a minimum 90 day suspension of your driver’s license, a 14 hour minimum substance abuse rehab program, and possibly 72 hours of community service, 48 hours to 5 days in jail, and $150-$1,000 in fines. For second DUI offenses within 5 years of the first offense, you will receive 240 hours of community service, 5-14 days in jail (48 hours must be served consecutively), and $500-$1,500 in fines.

For a third offense you will lose your vehicle and driving privileges, you will spend 10-30 days in jail (48 hours must be served consecutively), and you will be charged $500-$2,500 in fines. After the third offense, you may end up spending 5 years in jail and you may lose your license for 5 years.