Rhode Island: dui penalties
First-offense DUI penalties: jail, fines, license suspension, ignition interlock, how long priors count, and when a DUI becomes a felony.
Under review| Jail (1st offense) | None mandatory; up to 1 year |
|---|---|
| Fine | $100-$500 plus assessments |
| License suspension | 30 days to 18 months depending on BAC |
| Ignition interlock | Choice or conditional |
| How long priors count | 5 or 10 years (see note) |
| When it becomes a felony | 3rd within the lookback period |
A 2026 table lists a 5-year lookback, but a 2025 law reportedly extended it to 10 years for offenses from July 1, 2025 (R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-27-2). After an arrest, the deadline to ask for a license (DMV) hearing is short, often 7 to 30 days. Check the notice you were given.
General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply. Confirm with the state agency, the court or a licensed professional in Rhode Island.
Also for Rhode Island: Divorce rules by state in Rhode Island · Workers' comp deadlines in Rhode Island · Small estate limits in Rhode Island · Small claims limits in Rhode Island · Homestead exemptions in Rhode Island
How we checked this
Figures come from a statute-compiled 50-state table cross-checked against Nolo, NCSL, MADD and IIHS data, with conflicts re-checked in June 2026. Last checked: November 12, 2026. Laws change; confirm with the state agency or a licensed professional before acting.
Cross-checked sources agree Checked on official source confirmed on a government, court or legislature site From a statute-cited table one detailed source Under review sources disagree; read the note and the law.