New Jersey Makes Significant Changes to its DWI Laws
New Jersey has made a sweeping change to its first-offense DWI laws. Read on to learn more about the change and how it may have an impact on you:
How has New Jersey changed its DWI laws?
The new DWI laws in New Jersey are designed to punish those convicted in a more common-sense way. For example, a year-long license suspension can cause someone to lose their job, and also does not guarantee they won’t continue to drive drunk.
With the newly updated law, New Jersey is hoping to both deter drunk driving and allow first offenders to keep their life in order. Under the new law, set to go into effect by next January, if you are convicted of a first-offense DWI in New Jersey with a BAC between .08% and .10%, you will face the following penalties:
- Mandatory ignition interlock device at your own cost for 3-6 months
- A 30-day license suspension
- A $250-$500 fine
- 12-48 hours at the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center
- Up to 30 days of jail time
First-time offenders with a BAC between 0.10%-0.15% will have to install the ignition interlock device for 6 months to one year and face a license suspension of 45 days. First-time offenders with a BAC of .015% and higher will install and use an interlock device for 12-18 months and face a 90-day license suspension.
What happens if I am convicted of a second DWI?
The penalties for a second DWI in New Jersey are as follows:
- Up to 90 days incarceration
- Loss of license for 2 years
- $1000 yearly surcharge for 3 years
- A $100 Drunk Driving Fund
- A $75 Neighborhood Services Fund
- 12-48 hours in the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center
- A $500-$1000 fine
- A $100 Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Fund Fee
What are the consequences of a third or subsequent DWI in New Jersey?
If this is your third or subsequent offense, you may face the following consequences:
- Up to 180 days incarceration
- 10-year loss of license
- A $1500 yearly surcharge for 3 years
- A $1000 fine
- A $100 Drunk Driving Fund
- A $75 Neighborhood Services Fund
- A $100 Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Fund Fee
- 12-48 hours in the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center
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