Ovi, Dui, Owi, Dwi: What’s The Difference?

Here is a quick chart by state of the relevant abbreviations:

Although individual state regulations can vary significantly, the legal limit for drinking and driving in all 50 states is .08 blood alcohol content (BAC), with the exception of Utah, where it is .05.  Aside from that fact, the name of the offense and other specifics in each state differ.

Which charge did you receive?

• OVI = Operating a Vehicle while Intoxicated
• OMVI = Operating a Motor Vehicle while Impaired
• DUI = Driving Under the Influence
• DUII = Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants
• DUII-CS = Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants: Controlled Substances
• OWI = Operating While Intoxicated
• DWI = Driving While Intoxicated
• OUI = Operating Under the Influence of intoxicating liquor
• DWAI = Driving While Ability Impaired
• ADWI = Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated

All of these acronyms mean the same thing — that the person driving was suspected of doing so while impaired by alcohol and/or drugs.

Here is a quick chart by state of the relevant abbreviations:

Most states require a hardship license or an ignition interlock restricted license after you install your IID.   Check our state requirements page for specific information on how to get your license back with an ignition interlock device (IID).  No matter what the charge is, if you need a car breathalyzer, LifeSafer is the best ignition interlock company when it comes to service and convenience.