Alaska DUI laws state that any driver over the age of 21 cannot have a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or higher in motor vehicles, watercraft, and aircraft.

Written by Bonnie Stinson

Reviewed by Kathleen Flear

Updated on Mar 23, 2023

Table of Contents

What is a DUI?
DUI in Alaska
Penalties
Impact on car insurance
Other consequences
Cheap car insurance

Load full table of contents

Alaska DUI laws state that anyone who is driving with a blood/breath alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or above can be charged with an OUI, or operating under the influence. This applies to motor vehicles, watercraft, and aircraft. You can even be charged when the vehicle is not moving.

Each year, over 10,000 people in the US are killed on the road as a result of drunk driving crashes.

Driving while under the influence of intoxicants like alcohol and drugs is a dangerous crime. Penalties vary by state, but even a first-time offense could cost the driver up to $10,000 in legal fees and fines. Plus, a DUI can trigger a huge increase in your

Alaska car insurance costs

rates.

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What is a DUI?

DUI is an acronym that stands for driving under the influence, whereas DWI means driving while intoxicated or impaired. The state will determine the difference.

Some states—like Alaska—use different terms to mean the same thing, like OUI (operating under the influence) or OWI (operating while intoxicated). It is a misdemeanor in Alaska.

A driver can be charged with an OUI for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and this includes legal drugs like prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs. If you become impaired as a result of taking a substance and then get behind the wheel, you can be charged with a DUI.

MORE:

DUI vs. DWI

DUI in Alaska

In Alaska, it is illegal to operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol level of:

0.08% or higher

0.04% if you’re driving a commercial vehicle

These requirements apply to motor vehicles, boats, aircraft, and recreational vehicles.

Key Takeaway There is zero tolerance for minors driving under the influence. People under the age of 21 may not carry alcohol inside a vehicle unless a parent is present and the container is unopened, full, and sealed.

Each state has an implied consent law which says that you consent to be tested if an officer suspects you of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

If you are lawfully arrested for an OUI, you are required to submit to a urine, blood, or breath test. Alaska drivers who refuse to be tested can be penalized with lengthy license suspensions or even revocation of their license.

You do not have the right to consult with legal counsel before taking the test.

MORE:

Tips to get a clean driving record

Penalties for DUI in Alaska

Penalties for DUIs are strict and the conviction will remain on your driving record for life.

First conviction

For an OUI/DWI in Alaska, here are the penalties for a first conviction:

Penalty	Description
Fine	$1,500 minimum
Jail	Minimum 72 consecutive hours
License suspension	90 days
Ignition interlock device	Yes
Vehicle impoundment	No
SR-22 requirement	Yes

You may be prohibited from purchasing alcohol for a duration determined by the court.

The state may require that you complete an alcohol/drug treatment program. The length of the program will depend on the severity of your conviction.

You must also install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle for 12 months upon license restoration. This device will prevent you from starting the car if there is any alcohol on your breath.

Subsequent convictions

Penalty	Description
Fine	Up to $10,000
Jail	Up to 240 days
License suspension	1 to 5 years
Ignition interlock device	Up to 36 months
Vehicle impoundment	Yes
SR-22 requirement	Yes

If you are convicted of a DUI again, you will be subject to increased penalties. These could include serious fines (up to $10,000), up to 240 days in prison, an ignition interlock device, permanent license revocation, and even forfeiture of your vehicle.

After the suspension period, it may be possible for you to obtain a limited license that permits you to drive when necessary (i.e., to work) if you agree to:

Complete the prescribed DUI program

Install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle

Only drive vehicles that have an ignition interlock device

Pay the reissue and restriction fees to the state

Key Takeaway Minimum penalties are usually increased if you had a very high blood alcohol concentration or if you were involved in an accident where someone was injured—even for a first conviction.

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Does a DUI impact car insurance in Alaska?

Yes, a DUI classifies you as a

high-risk driver

and insurance companies pay very close attention to DUI convictions.

It can be a challenge to find insurance with a DUI on your record. A good strategy is to shop around with multiple providers.

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With a DUI on your record, expect substantially higher rates than your previous payment. Alaska drivers with a DUI are required to find an insurance company that can file an

SR-22

on their behalf. This confirms that they have state-mandated minimum insurance.

MORE:

SR-22 in Alaska: what you need to know

Other effects of a DUI

Higher insurance rates and penalties are not the only negative consequences of a DUI conviction. You could also face these additional consequences:

License revocation: Your license may be revoked if you were charged with another serious offense.

Ignition interlock device: Every state has a version of the ignition interlock program, which requires drivers with a DUI conviction to install this device in their vehicle. It will disable your engine if any alcohol is detected on your breath.

Background checks: Employers who do a background check on you will see your DUI. This means that a conviction could jeopardize your job prospects.

How to find cheap insurance after a DUI

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