Pennsylvania’s 3-Tiered System for Driving Under the Influence / Driving After Imbibing (DUI/DAI)
Pennsylvania has a tiered system for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) offenses, which imposes increasingly severe penalties based on the level of impairment and the number of prior offenses.
The three tiers are:
General Impairment: This applies to drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% to 0.099%, or who show other evidence of impairment, such as failing a field sobriety test. First-time offenders face a fine of $300, plus court costs and mandatory alcohol safety school attendance. Second-time offenders face a fine of $300 to $2,500, a license suspension of 12 months, and may have to spend five days to six months in jail.
High BAC: This applies to drivers with a BAC of 0.10% to 0.159%. First-time offenders face a fine of $500 to $5,000, a license suspension of 12 months, and may have to spend two days to six months in jail. Second-time offenders face a fine of $1,000 to $5,000, a license suspension of 18 months, and may have to spend 90 days to five years in jail.
Highest BAC: This applies to drivers with a BAC of 0.16% or higher. First-time offenders face a fine of $1,000 to $5,000, a license suspension of 12 months, and may have to spend three days to six months in jail. Second-time offenders face a fine of $2,500 to $5,000, a license suspension of 18 months, and may have to spend six months to five years in jail.
It's important to note that these are only general guidelines, and penalties can vary depending on the specific circumstances of each case. Repeat offenders and those who cause accidents or injuries while driving under the influence can face even more severe penalties.