Any first standard DUI is a misdemeanor. This crime is technically called “Driving Under the Influence.” It involves operation of a car or any other motor vehicle while intoxicated on alcohol or other substances. Legally, blood alcohol concentration (BAC) must be 0.08 or greater, or the individual must have taken another intoxicant (to any degree).
How Bad is a First Offense DUI?
The first instance of a standard DUI leads to sentencing with the following parameters:
- Up to 6 months in jail
- Up to a $1000 fine
- Up to 180 days license suspension, with a 30-day mandatory minimum.
Notably, the allowable BAC amounts differ for people who are under 21 and for those driving commercial vehicles. For under-21 convictions, the BAC necessary for DUI is 0.02. For commercial drivers, it is 0.04.
Sentencing guidelines for an under-21 first conviction are softer than the adult guidelines, while still harsh for a young adult:
- Up to a $1000 fine
- Up to a 1 year license suspension, with minimum-mandatory 90 days
- Alcohol evaluation.
The primary recent change to DUI law in Idaho is a new rule that requires 1-year installation of a breathalyzer (called an “ignition interlock system” by the Idaho Statutes) on any cars operated by a convicted DUI driver.
Penalties in a misdemeanor DUI case in Idaho.