Washington DUI laws state that any driver over the age of 21 cannot have a blood-alcohol level of 0.08% or higher. This is reduced to 0.04% for commercial drivers and 0.02% for minors.

Each year, over 10,000 people in the US are killed on the road as a result of drunk driving crashes.

Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a dangerous crime and penalties vary by state. Even a first-time offense can cost drivers up to $10,000 in fines and legal fees—and it will most certainly impact your

car insurance

rates, too.

The car insurance comparison and broker app

Jerry

has compiled everything you need to know about DUI laws in Washington—plus a tip to find cheaper

Washington car insurance

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What is a DUI/DWI?

DUI

refers to driving under the influence while a DWI means driving while intoxicated or impaired. The two terms are often used interchangeably, and each state generally has a preference for one over the other, or in some cases, they might use a unique term instead.

The state of Washington uses the term DUI in reference to anyone driving with alcohol, drugs, or a combination of the two in their system.

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DUI in Washington

In Washington, it is illegal to operate a vehicle with a blood-alcohol level of 0.08% or higher.

A DUI does not have to necessarily involve actual driving—as long as the offender was found in a position where they were in actual control of the vehicle, they can still be cited.

If the driver is found with a BAC above the legal limit, they will be charged with a per se DUI. Whether or not they are impaired to an extent that they cannot safely operate a car in a per se DUI is moot.

Key Takeaway The car does not have to be in motion for an intoxicated driver to be charged with a DUI.

Every state has an implied consent law stipulating that you consent to be tested if you’re suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

If you’re lawfully arrested for a DUI, you must submit to a urine, blood, or breath test. You do not have a right to consult with a lawyer before completing the test.

There are penalties in every state, including Washington, for not cooperating with these tests.

MORE:

Tips to get a clean driving record

Penalties for DUI in Washington

DUIs in Washington remain on a driver’s record for seven years. If a second offense is committed during that time frame, the first offense is considered a prior when determining the offense level of the second.

First offense

Penalty	Description
Fine	$350 to $5,000
Jail	1 to 364 days or 15 days house arrest or 90 days in a 24/7 sobriety program
License suspension	90 days, or 2 days if enrolled in 24/7 sobriety program

Second offense

Penalty	Description
Fine	$500 to $5,000
Jail	30 to 364 days or four days, plus 180 days house arrest or 120 days in a 24/7 sobriety program
License suspension	2 years, or 1 year if enrolled in 24/7 sobriety program

In the event of a second or subsequent DUI, the court can order the offender’s vehicle to be seized and sold.

Third offense

Penalty	Description
Fine	$2,000 to $3,000
Jail	30 to 364 days or four days, plus 180 days house arrest or 120 days in a 24/7 sobriety program
License suspension	Revoked for 3 years

These penalties are increased if the driver refused a breathalyzer test, was found to be transporting minor passengers, or had a BAC higher than 0.15%. The additional penalties include longer jail terms and more expensive fines.

For all offenders, the use of an ignition interlock device (IID) is required for their entire probation period, as determined by a judge. The IID will allow offenders to apply for a restricted license.

They must also submit to a drug and alcohol evaluation, and comply with any recommended treatment plan or program. They may also be required to attend a victim impact panel at their own expense.

Key Takeaway Washington has minimum penalties for a DUI, which are more severe if the DUI involves minors, refusal to comply, or if the driver had a BAC higher than 0.015%.

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Does a DUI impact car insurance in Washington?

Yes, insurance companies take DUIs very seriously and you’ll be classified as a

high-risk driver

With a DUI on your record, you can reasonably expect that insurance carriers will charge you

significantly higher insurance rates

or they may refuse to insure you entirely. That’s where

Jerry

can help. Jerry quickly submits your info and presents you with quotes from up to 50 top providers, so that you don’t have to spend time reaching out to each company one by one.

Your insurance carrier will also be required to

fill out an SR-22

to prove you have the state-mandated minimum insurance coverage.

MORE:

SR-22 in Washington: what you need to know

Other effects of a DUI

Beyond the conviction penalties and higher insurance rates, DUIs can have some other lasting impacts on your life.

License revocation: After a DUI, you run the risk of

having your license revoked

if you’re charged with other serious offenses.

Ignition interlock device: All states have some type of ignition interlock program requiring drivers convicted of a DUI to install an interlock device in their vehicle to disable the engine if alcohol is detected on their breath.

Background checks: Your DUI will show up on a background check indefinitely, which can cause issues for future employment endeavors.

How to find cheap insurance after a DUI

Finding affordable insurance after a DUI conviction can be especially difficult, so it’s important to have help.

Jerry

can help by streamlining comparison shopping and providing dozens of quotes for you to choose from at the best rates available.

Once you choose a policy from our

trustworthy insurance shopping super app

, Jerry will handle the phone calls, paperwork, and renewals for your top pick so that you don’t have to.

When your policy is up for renewal, Jerry will send you updated quotes so you’re always paying the best price.

"
Jerry
brought my insurance deductible down from $2.5k to $1k without me having to switch companies. I even had a ticket on my record. If it can help me, Jerry will definitely help you save money." —Maxwell N.

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