Frequently Asked Questions

For drivers 21 and older, the legal limit is 0.08% BAC. Commercial drivers face a 0.04% limit. Drivers under 21 are subject to Wisconsin's zero-tolerance law — any detectable alcohol can result in penalties.

Wisconsin uses the term OWI (Operating While Intoxicated). Other states may say DUI or DWI, but Wisconsin law refers to operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or other substances.

You can refuse, but Wisconsin's implied consent law means refusal typically results in an automatic license revocation and may be used as evidence in court. Refusal penalties are separate from OWI penalties.

Total costs often exceed $10,000 when you include fines, legal fees, increased insurance, license reinstatement, and ignition interlock. Exact amounts depend on offense number and circumstances.

Yes. The Tavern League of Wisconsin SafeRide program provides free rides home from participating TLW-member taverns statewide. Learn more at tlw.org/saferide or use the TLW SafeRide mobile app at tlw.org/saferide-app to find nearby providers. Availability varies by establishment — ask your bartender. Local county resources are also listed on this site.

The SAMHSA National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) provides free, confidential referrals 24/7. Wisconsin DHS also maintains a directory of treatment providers by county.

Wisconsin generally does not allow expungement of OWI convictions. An OWI remains on your driving record and can affect employment, insurance, and future penalties.

Offer a concrete alternative — call a ride, take their keys, or help them stay where they are. If they drive anyway and pose immediate danger, contact local law enforcement.

A first-offense OWI in Wisconsin is typically a civil violation with fines, license revocation, mandatory alcohol assessment, and possible ignition interlock depending on BAC. Penalties increase significantly for higher BAC levels and repeat offenses.

Wisconsin requires ignition interlock devices for repeat OWI offenders and for first offenses with a BAC of 0.15% or higher. Interlock must be installed on all vehicles registered to the offender.

Plan before you drink: designate a sober driver, save rideshare apps, check for Tavern League SafeRide at your venue, or use CrossroadsWI's Plan Your Ride guide. Having a plan before the first drink is the most reliable way to get home safely.

Wisconsin officially uses OWI (Operating While Intoxicated). DUI and DWI are common terms in other states and in everyday conversation, but Wisconsin statutes and court records use OWI.

Uber and Lyft operate in most Wisconsin metro areas and many smaller communities. Availability varies by location and time — check the app before you need a ride. Rideshare is one option alongside SafeRide, taxis, and designated drivers.

Options include rideshare (Uber/Lyft), designated drivers, staying overnight, and the Tavern League of Wisconsin SafeRide program — free rides from participating taverns (tlw.org/saferide). The TLW SafeRide mobile app (tlw.org/saferide-app) helps you find nearby providers. Use Plan Your Ride and the Resource Directory on CrossroadsWI to compare options before you go out.

Wisconsin DOT publishes official annual impaired driving crash statistics. See CrossroadsWI's Statistics page for the latest WisDOT data on fatalities, injuries, and crash trends — all linked to official sources.

WisDOT reports annual injury counts in impaired driving crashes alongside fatality data. Official figures are updated each year — CrossroadsWI links directly to WisDOT crash statistics and impaired driving fact sheets.

Browse CrossroadsWI by county to find local treatment providers, crisis lines, and community programs. Wisconsin DHS maintains a statewide AODA provider directory organized by county.

Recovery support includes AODA treatment, peer support groups, Wisconsin DHS county services, and national helplines. CrossroadsWI's Guided Help Finder walks you through treatment, recovery, and crisis options step by step.

Yes. Wisconsin OWI law covers impairment by any substance, including cannabis and THC. You can be charged with OWI if you are operating while impaired by marijuana, even if you have a medical cannabis card from another state.

For immediate danger, call 911. For mental health or substance use crisis, call or text 988. Wisconsin DHS maintains county crisis lines, and Crisis Text Line offers free 24/7 support by text (text HOME to 741741). See CrossroadsWI's Need Help Right Now page for verified crisis resources.

Wisconsin may allow an occupational (work) license after a revocation period, subject to eligibility rules, fees, and possible ignition interlock requirements. Requirements vary by offense number and circumstances — consult Wisconsin DOT or legal counsel for your situation.

Yes. Wisconsin OWI law covers impairment by any substance, including prescription and over-the-counter medications. If a drug affects your ability to drive safely, you can be charged with OWI regardless of whether you have a valid prescription.