Arrested for OUI
in Maine?
A OUI arrest in Maine 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 Maine OUI attorney who can fight for you.
- BAC limit: 0.08% (0.02% if under 21)
- 10 years lookback period for prior offenses
- You have 10 days to request a license hearing
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Maine OUI Penalties by Offense
Maine uses a 10 years lookback period — prior convictions within that window escalate your penalties significantly.
First Offense
- JailUp to 1 year
- Fine$500
- License Suspension150 days
- Ignition InterlockNo
Second Offense
- Classificationwithin 10 years
- PenaltiesNot less than 7 days or more than 12 months and not less than $700
- Lookback Window10 years
Third Offense & Beyond
- Classificationwithin 10 years
- PenaltiesNot less than 30 days or more than 12 months and not less than $1,100
Aggravated OUI (BAC ≥ 0.15%): Higher BAC levels trigger enhanced penalties in Maine. If your BAC was significantly above the legal limit, you may face mandatory minimums, additional fines, or elevated charges. An experienced Maine OUI attorney can evaluate the specific circumstances of your case.
What Happens to Your License
Maine operates a two-track system — your license faces consequences from both the court and the DMV independently. You must act fast on both fronts.
- 10-Day Rule: You have just 10 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: 150 days
- Refusal Consequences: Refusing a chemical test triggers an automatic license revocation of 275 days under Maine's implied consent law — separate from any criminal penalties.
- Ignition Interlock: Mandatory ignition interlock device required.
Maine OUI Defense Strategies
Even if you failed a breath test, that doesn't mean your case is lost. Experienced Maine OUI attorneys challenge charges on multiple grounds:
Special Maine OUI Circumstances
Under 21
Maine applies a strict BAC threshold of just 0.02% for drivers under 21. First offense – Suspension 1 year; Second offense – Suspension 2 years. A OUI on a young driver's record can affect college applications, employment, and insurance for years.
Commercial Drivers
CDL holders in Maine are held to a stricter 0.04% BAC standard while operating a commercial vehicle. A OUI 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 OUI in your personal vehicle can threaten your commercial license and livelihood.
Drug OUI
Maine 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 oui charges; impairment alone is sufficient. The same criminal penalties apply, and drug oui cases often involve more complex evidence that an experienced attorney can challenge.
Don't Face Maine's OUI System Alone
The 10-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. OUI laws in Maine change frequently. This is not legal advice. Always consult a licensed Maine OUI attorney for guidance specific to your situation.