Driving While Impaired: the Penalties

ALL states now share reciprocity meaning whatever goes on your record as a DWI offense in one state carries over to all the other states.

Here are some generic penalties for each instance of a DWI/DUI offense in the state of North Carolina, but understand that these are basic overviews. In any case there are multiple factors and aspects that go into the final judgment. But for your teen expect the strictest of penalties.

First NC DUI Offense/1st Drunk Driving Conviction

• License Suspension – 1 Year Mandatory
• Substance Abuse Assessment / Treatment

Second NC DUI Offense/2nd Drunk Driving Conviction

• License Suspension – 4 Years if Previous DUI was Within 3 Years
• Ignition Interlock Device – Required for Restoration
• Substance Abuse Assessment / Treatment

Third NC DUI Offense/3rd Drunk Driving Conviction

• Class “F” Felony Habitual Impaired Driving (If Other Offenses Within 10 Years)
• Imprisonment – 12 Months Minimum
• License Suspension – Permanent Revocation if Last Previous was Within 5 Years
• Ignition Interlock Device – Required for 7 Years if Restoration is Allowed
• Vehicle Forfeiture Possible
• Substance Abuse Assessment / Treatment

Fourth NC DUI Offense/4th Drunk Driving Conviction

• Class “F” Felony Habitual Impaired Driving (If Other Offenses Within 10 Years)
• Imprisonment – 12 Months Minimum
• License Suspension – Permanent Revocation if 3 Previous Were Within Last 7 Years
• Ignition Interlock Device – Required for 7 Years if Restoration is Allowed
• Substance Abuse Assessment / Treatment