Iowa DUI Laws, Penalties, and License SuspensionIowa drunk driving laws have become more and more complicated and the penalties are more harsh that ever. The amount of alcohol a person can consume is becoming less and the effort to crack down on OWI is rising. Most people arrested for drunk driving  have never been in trouble with the law before, this will be the first time they were handcuffed, put into the back of a police car, and tried by the state in court.
The DMV and court process is confusing and there is no room for even the slightest error. Knowing the laws, penalties, fees and process is extremely important. The biggest mistake you can make is assuming that you don't need to speak to a lawyer. DUIs are very complex and a lot is at stake. If you plead guilty to a DUI, your guilty. No reducing, no plea bargaining, just guilty. Give your case a change, talk to a lawyer. You can schedule a free, no obligation consultation with an attorney today by calling (877) 678-5640.
Iowa Laws
The following driving actions are illegal in the State of Iowa:
- All drivers with a BAC of .08 or higher.
- Under 21 with a BAC of .02 or higher.
- Commercial Vehicle Driver with a BAC of .04 or higher.
Iowa Penalties
First Drunk Driving Conviction
The first OWI you receive in Iowa is punishable by up to 1 year in jail. You will spend a minimum of 48 hours in jail, however the court may impose a harsher penalty in some cases. You will also receive a fine between $500-$1,000 and you will be ordered to undergo a substance abuse evaluation at your own cost. Your drivers license will be revoked for 180 days (6 Months) and if your BAC was between .08-.10 you will be allowed to apply for a temporary restricted license to drive to and from work. You may also be ordered to install an ignition interlock device at your own expense.
Second Drunk Driving Conviction
The second time you are convicted of driving under the influence, you will be guilty of an aggravated misdemeanor and you will be sentenced to a minimum term of at least 7 days in jail up to 2 years. A driver convicted for the second time will not have the option for deferred sentencing or judgment. You will also be fined a minimum of $1,500-$5,000 and community service for a time determined by the court. You may also be ordered to participate in a substance abuse program of the courts choice at your own expense. Your drivers license will be suspended for a minimum 2-6 years with no option for a restricted license until the first year has been served and a ignition interlock device has been installed.
Third Drunk Driving Conviction
If you are convicted for a 3rd time of OWI in Iowa you are guilty of a Class "D" Felony and you shall be committed to the custody of the Iowa Department of Corrections for an indeterminate term not to exceed 5 years. The mandatory minimum term of imprisonment for your 3rd drunk driving conviction is 30 days in the county jail. You may also be ordered to community treatment at your own expense and you will be fined a minimum $2,500-$7,500. You must also undergo a substance abuse evaluation at your own expense and potentially be committed for treatment. Your vehicle may also be seized by the state to be impounded or immobilized. Your license will be revoked for a period of 6 years with no option for a restricted license until the first year has been served and a ignition interlock device has been installed.
Iowa Drivers License Issues
The implied consent law in Iowa means that as a driver in the State of Iowa you agree to submit to a chemical test of your blood, breath or urine if a peace officer has reasonable cause to believe you are under the influence of Alcohol or Drugs. If you refuse to submit to such a test your drivers license will be revoked by the Iowa department of transportation. On the first refusal your drivers license will be suspended for a period of 1 year and you will not be eligible for a restricted license for at least 90 days after the effective date of revocation. If you do expect to apply for a restricted license you must have an ignition interlock device installed first.
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has some very strenuous drunk driving laws. A DUI can cost you your drivers license, it caries heavy fines and penalties, and can even put you in jail. Follow the link to find out more information:
