OVI Penalties and DUI Fines in Ohio: What You Need to Know

Driving under the influence is a serious offense in Ohio, and the penalties, including fines, can be substantial.

If you’re facing DUI charges, it’s essential to understand the financial consequences and seek experienced legal counsel to protect your rights.

Is a DUI the Same as an OVI?

Operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI) is the legal terminology used in Ohio when referring to an offense in which one drives a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Other states use the terms DUI and DWI when referring to a similar situation.

For more information about the difference in terminology, read our OVI vs DUI in Ohio blog.

DUI Fines in Ohio: The Basics

In Ohio, OVI penalties are tiered based on the number of prior OVI offenses within a 10-year look-back period and the severity of the offense.

Here’s a breakdown of the potential fines and penalties for simple OVI with low test or drug (not including underage OVI) (source):

Penalties for a First Offense

• Fines ranging from $375 to $1,075
• 3 days in jail or participation in driver intervention program (DIP), up to 6 months
• License suspension for 1 to 3 years

Penalties for a Second Offense

• Fines ranging from $525 to $1,625
• 10 days in jail or 5 days in jail and 18 days of house arrest with electronic monitor (HAEM) and/or continuous alcohol monitoring (CAM), up to 6 months
• Alcohol/drug assessment and recommended mandatory treatment
• Ignition interlock device installation
• License suspension for 1 to 7 years
• Vehicle immobilized for up to 90 days if registered to offender

Penalties for a Third Offense (Unclassified Misdemeanor)

• Fines ranging from $850 to $2,750
• 30 days in jail or 15 days in jail and 55 days of HAEM and/or CAM, up to 1 year
• Mandatory alcohol/drug addiction treatment program
• Plates and ignition interlock device installation
• Vehicle forfeiture

Fourth and Subsequent OVI Penalties

• Fines ranging from $1,350 to $10,500
• 60 days of local incarceration, up to 1 year or 60 days in prison with the potential addition of 6 to 30 months
• Mandatory alcohol/drug addiction treatment program
• Plates and ignition interlock device installation
• Class 3 license suspension from 3 years to life
• Vehicle forfeiture
• Can become a felony OVI charge in some cases

What Factors Can Influence DUI Fines and Additional Penalties?

Several factors can increase or decrease DUI fines in Ohio, including:

BAC Level

A higher Blood Alcohol Content (BAC), such as 0.17% or more, can result in enhanced penalties.

Circumstances of the Arrest

Aggravating factors like speeding, causing an accident, or having minors in the car can lead to higher fines.

Legal Representation

While the state of Ohio will provide you with a lawyer if you do not have one, these lawyers are often overworked with a high caseload. Hiring a skilled DUI defense lawyer to handle your case may help reduce fines by negotiating charges or penalties.

Beyond Fines: Other Ohio OVI Penalties

While fines are the most apparent cost, a DUI conviction can have additional financial consequences, including:

• Increased car insurance rates (often doubling or tripling).
• Costs for alcohol education or treatment programs.
• Potential asset forfeiture or vehicle immobilization fees.
• Employment challenges and lost wages due to a suspended license.

Fighting DUI Charges in Ohio

A DUI charge doesn’t automatically mean conviction. At SS+D Law, we examine every detail of your case, from the traffic stop to the breathalyzer results, to identify potential defenses. Were your rights violated during the arrest? Was the BAC test administered correctly? These questions can make a significant difference in your OVI case.

Our OVI lawyers may be able to reduce charges and avoid severe penalties, such as revoked driving privileges or jail time.

If you’ve been charged with an OVI, call our law firm now at 937-222-2500 to speak to an attorney.

Facing DUI / OVI Charges in Ohio? Protect Your Future with SS+D Law’s Criminal Defense Lawyers

DUI fines in Ohio are serious, but you don’t have to face them alone. The experienced attorneys at SS+D Law are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the best possible outcome.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights and minimizing the financial and legal impact of an OVI charge.