Arrested for DUI
in Hawaii?
A DUI arrest in Hawaii 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 Hawaii DUI attorney who can fight for you.
- BAC limit: 0.08% (0.02% if under 21)
- 5 years lookback period for prior offenses
- You have 6 days to request a license hearing
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Hawaii DUI Penalties by Offense
Hawaii uses a 5 years lookback period — prior convictions within that window escalate your penalties significantly.
First Offense
- Jail48 hours to 5 days
- Fine$250 to $1,000
- License Suspension1 year to 18 months
- Ignition InterlockYes
Second Offense
- Classificationwithin 5 years
- PenaltiesRevocation 3 years; 240 hours community service or 5–14 days jail
- Lookback Window5 years
Third Offense & Beyond
- Classificationwithin 5 years
- PenaltiesRevocation 4 years; 10–30 days jail
Aggravated DUI (BAC ≥ 0.15%): Higher BAC levels trigger enhanced penalties in Hawaii. If your BAC was significantly above the legal limit, you may face mandatory minimums, additional fines, or elevated charges. An experienced Hawaii DUI attorney can evaluate the specific circumstances of your case.
What Happens to Your License
Hawaii operates a two-track system — your license faces consequences from both the court and the DMV independently. You must act fast on both fronts.
- 6-Day Rule: You have just 6 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: 1 year to 18 months
- Refusal Consequences: Refusing a chemical test triggers an automatic license revocation under Hawaii's implied consent law — separate from any criminal penalties.
- Ignition Interlock: Mandatory ignition interlock device required.
Hawaii DUI Defense Strategies
Even if you failed a breath test, that doesn't mean your case is lost. Experienced Hawaii DUI attorneys challenge charges on multiple grounds:
Special Hawaii DUI Circumstances
Under 21
Hawaii applies a strict BAC threshold of just 0.02% for drivers under 21. First alcohol enforcement contact – Suspension – 12 months; Second alcohol enforcement contact – Suspension – Not less than 2 years and not more than 5 years. A DUI on a young driver's record can affect college applications, employment, and insurance for years.
Commercial Drivers
CDL holders in Hawaii are held to a stricter 0.04% BAC standard while operating a commercial vehicle. A DUI 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 DUI in your personal vehicle can threaten your commercial license and livelihood.
Drug DUI
Hawaii 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 dui charges; impairment alone is sufficient. The same criminal penalties apply, and drug dui cases often involve more complex evidence that an experienced attorney can challenge.
Don't Face Hawaii's DUI System Alone
The 6-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. DUI laws in Hawaii change frequently. This is not legal advice. Always consult a licensed Hawaii DUI attorney for guidance specific to your situation.