In addition to any criminal charges for DUI/DWI, a state may assess civil (non-criminal) penalties against a person convicted of DUI/DWI. Civil penalties may include (1) thousands of dollars of fines; (2) suspension of the driver’s license; (3) requirements for additional insurance; (4) completion of alcohol rehabilitation/treatment and DUI/DWI intervention courses; and (5) installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on the driver’s motor vehicle.

The laws regarding civil penalties for DUI/DWI convictions are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal code or criminal code.

In Ohio, civil penalties for DUI/DWI, which is referred to as OVI (Operating a Vehicle under the Influence), are indeed separate from criminal penalties and are codified in the Ohio Revised Code. Upon conviction for OVI, an individual may face substantial fines, which can range into the thousands of dollars depending on the number of prior offenses and the severity of the incident. The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is responsible for the administrative suspension of the driver's license, which can vary in length from a few months to several years for repeat offenders. Ohio law also requires individuals convicted of OVI to obtain and maintain special insurance, known as SR-22 insurance, as a condition for the reinstatement of driving privileges. Additionally, offenders may be required to complete alcohol rehabilitation or treatment programs and DUI/OVI intervention courses. Finally, the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on the offender's vehicle is a common requirement, particularly for repeat offenders or cases with high blood alcohol concentration levels. These civil penalties are designed to deter impaired driving and to promote public safety on the roads.