Mississippi DUI Laws

While the state of Mississippi has one of the lowest populations in the U.S, it has one of the highest fatal car crash rates in the nation. Each year more than 911 Mississippi motorists are involved in fatal car crashes and a disturbing 40% of all Mississippi car crashes are alcohol-related. The state of Mississippi is on a mission to clean up its roads and make them safer for all drivers. So if you get pulled over for any reason, and the officer determines that you have been driving under the influence, you will be arrested on the spot. Once convicted, you face fines, license suspension, and mandatory jail time.

What is the blood alcohol content level (BAC) limit in the state of Mississippi?

In the state of Mississippi, it is a crime to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Sentence enhancements exist for cases involving a BAC of 0.15% or higher.

In the state of Mississippi what is the administrative license suspension period for a first offense?

In the state of Mississippi, if you get arrested for DUI, the administrative license suspension time for a first offense 90 days. A limited license will be granted under extreme circumstances only. If your license suspension will cost you your job or schooling, the judge may grant a limited license. In addition, if you must obtain medical care on a regular basis (i.e. treatment for diabetes, etc.), you may apply for a limited license.

In the state of Mississippi, what are the penalties for a first DUI offense? Second offense?

In the state of Mississippi, a first DUI offense will cost you $250-$1,000 and your license will be suspended for a minimum of 90 days. You may also have to spend a minimum of 48 hours in jail and enroll in an alcohol awareness program. Second offenses carry a minimum 5-day jail term up to 12 months. Your driver’s license will be suspended for 36 months and you will have to pay up to $1,500 in fines.

In the state of Mississippi, third and fourth DUI offenses will not be tolerated. You will be charged with a felony, which carries a 1-5 year prison term, $2.000-$5,000 in fines, a 5-year license suspension, and vehicle forfeiture.