What is the difference between a DWI and a DUI?

DWI and DUI are both acronyms for driving under the influence. While they are related, there is an important distinction between them. A DUI, or Driving Under the Influence, is the act of operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher. In California, if you are caught with a BAC of .08% or more and fail to pass a field sobriety test, you will be arrested and charged with DUI. A DWI, or Driving While Intoxicated, is the act of operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .10% or higher. In California, if you are caught with a BAC of .10% or more, you will be arrested and charged with a DWI. The main difference between the two is the threshold amount of alcohol in the bloodstream. DUI is based on a BAC of .08%, while DWI is based on a BAC of .10%. To put it simply, DWI is a more serious crime than DUI. When people are arrested for either charge, they are typically brought before a judge and face a possible jail sentence and fines. In California, both a DUI and a DWI can carry serious consequences. It is important to understand the difference between the two and to never drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

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What is the difference between a DWI and a DUI?

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