What You Need to Know About DUI Charges in Oklahoma

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Oklahoma that can lead to severe legal and personal consequences. Whether it's your first charge or a repeat offense, understanding how DUI laws work in this state is critical to protecting your rights and making informed decisions.

Oklahoma DUI Laws: The Basics

Under Oklahoma law, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle if:

• Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher;

• You are under the influence of alcohol or any intoxicating substance that impairs your ability to drive safely;

• You are under 21 and have any measurable amount of alcohol in your system (Zero Tolerance Law);

• You hold a commercial driver’s license and have a BAC of 0.04% or higher.

Oklahoma also enforces "actual physical control" laws, meaning you can be charged even if your car isn’t moving, as long as you're in control of the vehicle while intoxicated.

First-Time DUI: What to Expect

For a first-time DUI offense in Oklahoma, penalties may include:

• Jail time: 10 days to 1 year

• Fines: Up to $1,000

• License suspension: Typically 180 days

• Mandatory alcohol assessment and treatment programs

• Ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle

First-time offenses are usually charged as misdemeanors, but the consequences are still significant, and a conviction stays on your criminal record.

Aggravating Factors and Felony DUIs

DUI charges can escalate quickly depending on the circumstances. You may face a felony DUI if:

• It’s your second or subsequent offense within 10 years;

• You caused serious injury or death while driving under the influence;

• There was a child passenger in the car;

• You have a prior felony DUI on your record.

Felony DUI convictions carry steeper penalties, including prison time, higher fines, and long-term license revocation.

Implied Consent and License Suspension

Oklahoma has an implied consent law, which means that by driving on public roads, you agree to submit to a blood or breath test if lawfully requested by law enforcement. Refusing the test can result in:

• Immediate license suspension (often longer than if you had failed the test)

• Use of the refusal as evidence in court

• Possible installation of an IID

The Department of Public Safety (DPS) handles the administrative license suspension, which is separate from any criminal court proceedings. You have only 30 days from your arrest to request an administrative hearing to contest the suspension.

Defending Against DUI Charges

A DUI charge is not the same as a conviction. There are many potential defenses, including:

• Improper traffic stop

• Faulty or inaccurate testing equipment

• Medical conditions that mimic intoxication symptoms

• Violation of your constitutional rights

Why You Need an Experienced DUI Attorney

The consequences of a DUI conviction can follow you for years, affecting your job, finances, insurance rates, and even your freedom. An experienced Oklahoma DUI attorney can:

• Review all evidence and identify legal errors

• Represent you in court and at DPS hearings

• Negotiate for reduced charges or dismissal

• Protect your rights at every step

At Double Horn Injury Law, we understand what's at stake. We bring experience, knowledge, and aggressive advocacy to every DUI case we handle.

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been arrested for DUI in Oklahoma, don’t wait. Contact Double Horn today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We’re here to help you take control of your case and your future.

📞 Call 866-800-2312