Rhode Island DUI Laws

Rhode Island has the 47th highest alcohol-related car crash rate in the country. The state recorded 81 fatal car crashes in 2007, including 37 fatal alcohol-related accidents. This figure represents a 50% decrease between 1982-2007. Rhode Island keeps its roads safer than most states by creating and enforcing some of the toughest DUI laws in the nation. If you get caught driving drunk in Rhode Island, you face mandatory jail time, fines, community service, and mandatory license suspension.

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

In the state of Rhode Island, it is a crime to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. A BAC between 0.08%-0.10% carries the same penalties, but sentence enhancements exist for cases involving a BAC between 0.10%-0.15%. If convicted, you face felony charges for a BAC of 0.15% or higher.

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

In the state of Rhode Island, if you get arrested for DUI, there is no administrative license suspension period. The decision to reinstate your license during any suspension period is up to the judge.

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

For a first offense, your license will be suspended for 1-6 months, you will have to pay a minimum fine of $100 up to $300, and you may have to serve up to 12 months in jail. The judge may order community service, and you may have to enroll in a drunk driver program. Second offenses carry a mandatory $400 fine, license suspension of 12-24 months, 10-12 months in jail, and successful completion of an alcohol and drug treatment program. You may also have to install an interlock device on your car for up to 2 years after your diving privileges have been reinstated.