Mandatory minimum sentences for DUI in Washington State are strict and can have a major impact on your future. If you are facing DUI charges, it is essential to understand Washington’s DUI penalties, including jail time, fines, license suspensions, ignition interlock device requirements, and how BAC levels can affect sentencing.
In this guide, we explain the mandatory minimum sentences for DUI in Washington, what you can expect if convicted, and how an experienced DUI attorney can help protect your rights.
First-Time DUI Offenders and Mandatory Minimum Sentences in Washington
For a first-time DUI offense, Washington law imposes mandatory minimum penalties depending on your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and other factors.
- BAC under 0.15% or no BAC test:
- Jail Time: Minimum of 1 day (or 15 days of electronic home monitoring).
- Fine: Minimum of $990.50 plus court costs.
- License Suspension: 90 days.
- Ignition Interlock Device: Required for at least 1 year after reinstating your license.
- BAC of 0.15% or higher or refusal to take a BAC test:
- Jail Time: Minimum of 2 days (or 30 days of electronic home monitoring).
- Fine: Minimum of $1,245.50 plus court costs.
- License Suspension: 1 year for high BAC or 2 years for refusal.
- Ignition Interlock Device: Required for at least 1 year.
First-time DUI offenders must also complete a drug/alcohol assessment and follow any treatment recommendations.
🔗 Learn more about Washington State DUI enforcement from the Washington State Patrol.
Mandatory Minimum Sentences for Repeat DUI Offenders in Washington
Penalties increase significantly if you have previous DUI offenses within the past seven years.
Second DUI Conviction:
- BAC under 0.15%:
- Jail Time: Minimum of 30 days plus 60 days of electronic home monitoring.
- Fine: Minimum of $1,245.50.
- License Revocation: 2 years.
- Ignition Interlock Device: Required for 5 years.
- BAC of 0.15% or higher or refusal:
- Jail Time: Minimum of 45 days plus 90 days of electronic home monitoring.
- Fine: Minimum of $1,670.50.
- License Revocation: 900 days (high BAC) or 3 years (refusal).
Third or Subsequent DUI Conviction:
- BAC under 0.15%:
- Jail Time: Minimum of 90 days plus 120 days of electronic home monitoring.
- Fine: Minimum of $2,095.50.
- License Revocation: 3 years.
- Ignition Interlock Device: Required for 10 years.
- BAC of 0.15% or higher or refusal:
- Jail Time: Minimum of 120 days plus 150 days of electronic home monitoring.
- Fine: Minimum of $2,820.50.
- License Revocation: 4 years.
🔗 View the official Washington DUI Sentencing Grid (PDF).
Ignition Interlock Device Requirements After Washington DUI Convictions
After most DUI convictions in Washington, drivers must install an ignition interlock device (IID) to regain their driving privileges. These devices prevent the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on the driver’s breath.
The ignition interlock is typically required for:
- 1 year after a first DUI conviction
- 5 years after a second conviction
- 10 years after a third or subsequent conviction
🔗 Learn more about ignition interlock device requirements from the Washington DOL.
Aggravating Factors Can Increase Mandatory Minimum Sentences
Certain circumstances can increase your penalties beyond the mandatory minimums, including:
- Having a passenger under 16 years old in the vehicle
- Causing an accident or serious bodily injury
- Excessive speeding or reckless driving
These factors may lead to longer jail sentences, larger fines, and stricter license consequences.
Defending Against DUI Charges and Protecting Your Future
Facing DUI charges in Washington State can be overwhelming. However, hiring an experienced DUI defense attorney can make a critical difference. A skilled lawyer can:
- Challenge the legality of the traffic stop
- Question the accuracy of BAC results
- Negotiate to reduce or dismiss charges
- Advocate for alternative sentencing options
🔗 Learn how a DUI lawyer can help defend your rights.
Contact Ken Blanford for DUI Defense in Washington State
If you or a loved one is facing DUI charges, it’s important to act quickly. Contact Ken Blanford for experienced and aggressive DUI defense.
Ken Blanford
📧 Email: ken@blanfordlaw.com
📞 Phone: 253-720-9304
Ken understands the complexities of Washington’s DUI laws and is ready to fight for your rights and your future. Schedule your consultation today.
Additional Resources
For more information about DUI laws, driving requirements, and legal updates in Washington State, check out these helpful articles:
🔗 A Guide to Mandatory Minimums for Car Insurance in Washington
Summary:
Learn about Washington State’s required minimum car insurance coverage, including liability limits and penalties for driving without valid insurance.
🔗 Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Myths and Facts
Summary:
Separate fact from fiction about BAC levels, DUI arrests, and common misconceptions that can lead to serious legal trouble if misunderstood.
🔗 How to Get an Ignition Interlock License in Washington State
Summary:
If your license is suspended due to a DUI, this guide explains how to apply for an Ignition Interlock License (IIL) so you can legally drive again.
🔗 Ignition Interlock Device License Ruling: Waiver Found Unconstitutional
Summary:
Learn about a key court ruling that declared Washington’s ignition interlock license waiver unconstitutional—and what it could mean for DUI defendants.
🔗 Washington State Proposes Lowering BAC Limit to .05 for Enhanced Road Safety
Summary:
Washington is considering lowering the legal BAC limit for drivers from 0.08 to 0.05. Find out what the proposed change could mean for DUI enforcement and penalties.