Frequently Asked Questions
Or “Everything you always wanted to know about drunk driving but didn’t know who to ask”
Here are a few of the top questions about Connecticut’s drunk driving laws and limits. The only question we can’t answer… with all this information, why would anyone still be driving drunk?
What is DUI/DWI/OUI?
- DUI
- Driving Under the Influence
- DWI
- Driving While Intoxicated
- OUI
- Operating (a vehicle) Under the Influence
What’s the difference?
In Connecticut, the actual law uses the term OUI. DUI and DWI are common terms more known to the general public, but all three apply to driving while impaired.
What does BAC mean?
Blood Alcohol Content. It is the measure of the percentage of alcohol in your blood.
What is the legal BAC limit for DUI in Connecticut?
.08 if you are 21 and over. .02 if you are under 21.
How many drinks does it take to cross the legal limit?
Every single person is different, and there are numerous other variables that can affect your BAC as well. The only safe way to stay below the legal limit is to not have a drink at all.
For what reasons can an officer pull me over?
An officer can stop you if in the officer’s estimation you are driving erratically. This may include weaving, braking for no reason, driving too fast or too slow, and other causes.
What tests will the officer give me?
There are a number of field tests (tests given at the location of the traffic stop) that officers perform. The most common are walking the line, the eye movement test, and the balance test.
Do I have to take the breathalyzer, urine, or blood test?
No. However, Connecticut has what is known as the Implied Consent law. This means that by driving a vehicle you are giving consent to be tested. If you refuse to be tested, strict penalties are automatically applied. Learn more about the consequences in our section discussing the law.
Does OUI apply to illegal drugs?
Yes. Any drug that may impair your driving falls under the OUI laws.
What about prescription drugs?
Yes. Any drug that may impair your driving falls under the OUI laws.
What about over-the-counter drugs?
Yes. Any drug that may impair your driving falls under the OUI laws.
Will I go to jail?
If you are arrested, you will be taken to the police station, where you may be jailed for a short time. If convicted of DUI/OUI, jail sentences from 48 hours to 3 years may be applied. Learn more about the consequences in our section discussing the law.
What will happen to my driver’s license?
Your license may be suspended. There are two different ways this may happen.
- Administrative sanctions: the Department of Motor Vehicles applies these to DUI cases. Suspensions last from 3 months to 3 years.
- Criminal penalties: Driver’s licenses may be suspended for up to 3 years—or permanently if you are convicted of 3 DUIs in a 10-year span.
I have a CDL. Will a DUI affect that license?
Yes. Any conviction for DUI—no matter what vehicle you are driving—will cause a suspension of your CDL as well.
