DWI Laws in Minnesota

It's important to know the laws affecting you.

Each state legislature creates its own drunk-driving laws. Minnesota's drunk-driving laws differ from those of many other states. It is important to understand Minnesota's DWI/DUI laws in case you are charged with drunk driving.

Terminology

Unlike many other states, Minnesota recognizes no difference between Driving While Impaired (DWI) and Driving Under the Influence (DUI). The single recognized term in Minnesota law is "Driving While Impaired."

Levels

Minnesota law enforcement treats drivers differently depending on how drunk they are while driving. Driving with a blood alcohol level of between 0.08 and 0.20 is a misdemeanor offense. Driving with a blood alcohol level above 0.20 is a gross misdemeanor offense.

Aggravating Factors

Minnesota law enforcement recognizes three "aggravating factors" that could increase legal punishment. If you drive drunk with a child in your car, have an alcohol concentration of 0.20 or more or are convicted of DWI more than once per decade, you will earn a more severe penalty.

Penalties

Penalties range from community service to seven years of incarceration. If you drive with a blood alcohol level of 0.20 or above, you are subject to either 30 days of incarceration or 240 hours of community service.

References

• Minnesota Office of the Revisor of Statutes: Chapter 169A: Driving While Impaired

Resources

• Minnesota Department of Public Safety: Impaired Driving