Arrested for DWI
in Arkansas?
A DWI arrest in Arkansas is serious — but it doesn't have to define your future. Understanding the law is your first step. Get a free evaluation and connect with an experienced Arkansas DWI attorney who can fight for you.
- BAC limit: 0.08% (0.02% if under 21)
- 5 years lookback period for prior offenses
- You have 7 days to request a license hearing
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Arkansas DWI Penalties by Offense
Arkansas uses a 5 years lookback period — prior convictions within that window escalate your penalties significantly.
First Offense
- Jail24 hours to 1 year
- Fine$150 to $1,000
- License Suspension6 months
- Ignition InterlockYes
Second Offense
- Classificationwithin 5 years
- PenaltiesNot less than 7 days or more than 1 year, or no fewer than 30 days community service and not less than $400 or more than $3,000
- Lookback Window5 years
Third Offense & Beyond
- Classificationwithin 5 years of 1st offense
- PenaltiesNot less than 90 days or more than 1 year, or no fewer than 90 days community service and not less than $900 or more than $5,000
Aggravated DWI (BAC ≥ 0.15%): Higher BAC levels trigger enhanced penalties in Arkansas. If your BAC was significantly above the legal limit, you may face mandatory minimums, additional fines, or elevated charges. An experienced Arkansas DWI attorney can evaluate the specific circumstances of your case.
What Happens to Your License
Arkansas operates a two-track system — your license faces consequences from both the court and the DMV independently. You must act fast on both fronts.
- 7-Day Rule: You have just 7 days from your arrest to request an administrative hearing to contest your license revocation. Miss this window and your license is automatically revoked.
- 1st Offense Suspension: 6 months
- Refusal Consequences: Refusing a chemical test triggers an automatic license revocation of 180 days under Arkansas's implied consent law — separate from any criminal penalties.
Arkansas DWI Defense Strategies
Even if you failed a breath test, that doesn't mean your case is lost. Experienced Arkansas DWI attorneys challenge charges on multiple grounds:
Special Arkansas DWI Circumstances
Under 21
Arkansas applies a strict BAC threshold of just 0.02% for drivers under 21. First offense – Not less than $100 or more than $500; Second offense – Not less than $200 or more than $1,000; Third or subsequent offense – Not less than $500 or more than $2,000. A DWI on a young driver's record can affect college applications, employment, and insurance for years.
Commercial Drivers
CDL holders in Arkansas are held to a stricter 0.04% BAC standard while operating a commercial vehicle. A DWI conviction can result in a 1-year CDL disqualification for a first offense — and a lifetime ban for a second offense. Even an off-duty DWI in your personal vehicle can threaten your commercial license and livelihood.
Drug DWI
Arkansas law prohibits driving under the influence of any drug — including prescription medications and marijuana — not just alcohol. You do not need to be above a BAC limit for drug dwi charges; impairment alone is sufficient. The same criminal penalties apply, and drug dwi cases often involve more complex evidence that an experienced attorney can challenge.
Don't Face Arkansas's DWI System Alone
The 7-day deadline to protect your license is already counting down. Get your free evaluation now and find out exactly where you stand.
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Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and reflects laws as reported by the NHTSA Digest of Impaired Driving Laws. DWI laws in Arkansas change frequently. This is not legal advice. Always consult a licensed Arkansas DWI attorney for guidance specific to your situation.