Alcohol and Drug Limits

When are you legally intoxicated while driving in Indiana

Indiana law defines 0.08% BAC or higher as intoxicated. Driving at or above this level leads to OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) charges.

If you are under 21 with a BAC of 0.02% or more

Indiana enforces a zero-tolerance policy. Drivers under 21 with 0.02%+ BAC face fines, license suspension, and alcohol education programs.

When you refuse a chemical alcohol test

Under implied consent law, refusal of a chemical test results in an automatic 1-year suspension, even if not convicted of OWI.

If caught driving under the influence of drugs

Driving under the influence of prescription, illegal, or over-the-counter drugs that impair driving ability is considered an OWI offense.

When arrested for a first OWI offense

First-time OWI offenses in Indiana include up to 60 days in jail, up to $500 in fines, and 180-day license suspension.

If convicted of OWI with a BAC of 0.15% or more

A BAC of 0.15% or higher results in stricter penalties, including longer jail time, higher fines, and longer license suspension.

When convicted of a second OWI offense

A second offense within 5 years results in 1-year suspension, $10,000 fines, and possible imprisonment up to 3 years.

If transporting open alcohol containers in a vehicle

Indiana prohibits open containers of alcohol in passenger areas. Violations result in citations and possible points on your record.

When drugs impair your ability to drive

Even legal prescriptions can result in OWI charges if they impair your driving ability. Always check warnings and side effects.

If you are a commercial driver with a BAC of 0.04% or more

Commercial drivers face OWI penalties at 0.04% BAC, including license disqualification and job consequences.

When caught driving with illegal drugs in your system

Indiana enforces zero tolerance for controlled substances. Detection can lead to felony charges, jail time, and long-term license suspension.

If found guilty of OWI causing injury

OWI resulting in injury is a Level 6 felony, punishable by prison time, hefty fines, and up to 2-year license suspension.

When convicted of OWI causing death

OWI that results in death may carry 2–12 years in prison, large fines, and license revocation for up to 10 years.

If you combine alcohol with prescription drugs

Combining drugs with alcohol increases impairment, slows reaction time, and can result in immediate OWI arrest and charges.

When required to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)

Repeat or high-BAC offenders may be ordered to install an IID, which prevents the car from starting if alcohol is detected in the breath.