How serious is a DUI in Oklahoma?

As in any other state, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (DUI) in Oklahoma is a serious offense.   A DUI can be brought against a driver in two instances under Oklahoma DUI laws: 

• If you are driving appears to be impaired by drugs or alcohol.  The focus here is on your capacity as a driver, aside from your blood alcohol content
• If your blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher.  Your BAC is measured by a blood or breath test.  Like other states, Oklahoma states that you have immediately violated the law if you have a measured BAC of 0.08% or higher, no matter how you were driving.

A DUI in Oklahoma carries the following penalties depending on how many times you have been convicted of a DUI: 

If this is a first DUI offense, you will face:

• Possible fines
• Jail sentences for up to one year
• Possible mandatory drug treatment if the BAC is 0.15% or more
• Community service

If you have prior DUI convictions, the penalties in Oklahoma get even worse:

• Fines up to $5,000
• Jail time up to 10 years
• Mandatory drug treatment and community service
• Loss of driver’s license and vehicle

To minimize the potentially serious penalties you face, it is important to consult with an experienced DUI lawyer.