Repeat DUI Offender Laws in Washington State

Alcohol and drugs impair many of the functions that are necessary to drive safely. As a result, many states—including Washington—have very strict laws regarding driving under the influence (DUI). 

Drivers who get behind the wheel while drunk or high could face serious penalties, including fines, jail time, and administrative penalties. These DUI penalties can increase if the driver is a repeat offender, defined as having at least one prior conviction within the past seven years. 

What Is Considered a DUI in Washington State?

In Washington, a driver may be charged with a DUI if he or she meets any of the following criteria:

• The driver has a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher.
• The driver has a blood THC level of 5.0 per millimeter or higher.
• The driver was under the influence or affected by an intoxicating liquor or drug.
• The driver was under the influence of a combination of drugs and alcohol.
• The driver was operating a commercial vehicle and had a BAD of .04 or higher.
• The driver was under the age of 21 and had a BAC of .02 or higher.

Penalties for a first-time DUI include up to one year in jail, up to $5,000 in fines, and a minimum license suspension of 90 days. Aggravating factors like a BAC of 0.15 or higher or refusal of a breath test will result in more significant penalties. Additionally, all DUI convictions come with a five-year probation.

Penalties for a Second DUI in Washington 

In Washington, penalties for DUI increase when a person is convicted of second, third, and subsequent offenses. If you are convicted of a second DUI, you may face the following penalties:

• A maximum fine of $5,000
• A minimum license suspension of two years
• A minimum of 30 days in jail up to one year, or a minimum of 60 days of electronic home monitoring
• Required installation of an ignition interlock device for at least five years, as a condition of license reinstatement

If you refused a breath test or had a BAC of 0.15, these penalties will increase to a minimum of 45 days in jail or 90 days of electronic home monitoring. The license suspension will also increase to between 900 days to three years.

Penalties for a Third DUI in Washington 

For a third or subsequent offense, DUI penalties become even more severe. If you are convicted of this offense, you could incur the following consequences:

• A maximum fine of $5,000
• A minimum license suspension of three years
• A minimum sentence of 90 days in jail up to one year, or a minimum of 120 days of electronic home monitoring
• Required installation of an ignition interlock device for at least 10 years, as a condition of license reinstatement

If you refused a breath test or had a BAC of 0.15, you would face a minimum four-year license suspension. You would also face a minimum of 120 days in jail or 150 days of electronic home monitoring.

Speak to a Washington DUI Defense Attorney Today

If you are facing penalties under repeat DUI offender laws in Washington state, you need a criminal defense attorney on your side. A lawyer can help protect your rights and advocate for lighter penalties.

After your arrest, do not speak to the police officers or answer any questions. Contact a Washington DUI defense attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case and begin crafting your defense.