Washington DUI Laws and Penalties (2026)
A complete guide to DUI and DWI laws in Washington, including penalties for first and repeat offenses, BAC limits, license suspension rules, and when a DUI becomes a felony.
Washington DUI At a Glance
First Offense DUI in Washington
1–364 days jail, $990.50 min fine, 90-day suspension
Washington requires ignition interlock for all DUI convictions
Second Offense DUI in Washington
30–364 days, $1,245 min fine, 2-year revocation
When Does a DUI Become a Felony in Washington?
In Washington, a DUI typically becomes a felony charge at the 4th offense in 10 years. Additional circumstances that can elevate a DUI to a felony include:
- Causing injury or death to another person while driving impaired
- Having a child passenger in the vehicle
- Having an extremely high BAC (typically 0.15% or 0.16%+)
- Driving on a suspended or revoked license due to a prior DUI
Washington DUI BAC Limits
| Driver Type | BAC Limit |
|---|---|
| Standard (21+) | 0.08% |
| Under 21 | 0.00%–0.02% (zero tolerance) |
| Commercial Driver (CDL) | 0.04% |
Refusing a Breathalyzer in Washington
Washington, like all U.S. states, has an implied consent law. By driving on Washington roads, you implicitly consent to chemical testing (breath, blood, or urine) if lawfully arrested for DUI. Refusing a test will typically result in automatic license suspension, separate from any DUI conviction, and the refusal can be used against you in court.
DUI vs. DWI in Washington
Different states use different terminology. Washington uses DUI (Driving Under the Influence) as its primary statute, though both alcohol and drug impairment can result in charges.
Finding a DUI Lawyer in Washington
If you are facing a DUI charge in Washington, it is strongly recommended to consult with a qualified DUI defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can:
- Review the circumstances of your arrest for procedural errors
- Challenge the accuracy of BAC testing equipment
- Negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing
- Represent you at DMV hearings to contest license suspension