Arrested for OWI
in Michigan?
A OWI arrest in Michigan 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 Michigan OWI attorney who can fight for you.
- BAC limit: 0.08% (0.02% if under 21)
- 7 years lookback period for prior offenses
- You have 14 days to request a license hearing
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Michigan OWI Penalties by Offense
Michigan uses a 7 years lookback period — prior convictions within that window escalate your penalties significantly.
First Offense
- JailUp to 93 days
- Fine$100 to $500
- License SuspensionUp to 6 months
- Ignition InterlockNo
Second Offense
- Classificationwithin 7 years
- PenaltiesNot less than $200 or more than $1,000 and not less than 5 days or more than 1 year
- Lookback Window7 years
Third Offense & Beyond
- ClassificationFelony
- PenaltiesNot less than 1 year or more than 5 years (felony)
- StatusFelony Offense
Aggravated OWI (BAC ≥ 0.15%): Higher BAC levels trigger enhanced penalties in Michigan. If your BAC was significantly above the legal limit, you may face mandatory minimums, additional fines, or elevated charges. An experienced Michigan OWI attorney can evaluate the specific circumstances of your case.
What Happens to Your License
Michigan operates a two-track system — your license faces consequences from both the court and the DMV independently. You must act fast on both fronts.
- 14-Day Rule: You have just 14 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: Up to 6 months A restricted or hardship license for employment purposes may be available.
- Refusal Consequences: Refusing a chemical test triggers an automatic license revocation of 1 year under Michigan's implied consent law — separate from any criminal penalties.
Michigan OWI Defense Strategies
Even if you failed a breath test, that doesn't mean your case is lost. Experienced Michigan OWI attorneys challenge charges on multiple grounds:
Special Michigan OWI Circumstances
Under 21
Michigan applies a strict BAC threshold of just 0.02% for drivers under 21. (misdemeanor): First offense– Not more than $250 and/or not more than 360 hours of community se. A OWI on a young driver's record can affect college applications, employment, and insurance for years.
Commercial Drivers
CDL holders in Michigan are held to a stricter 0.04% BAC standard while operating a commercial vehicle. A OWI 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 OWI in your personal vehicle can threaten your commercial license and livelihood.
Drug OWI
Michigan 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 owi charges; impairment alone is sufficient. The same criminal penalties apply, and drug owi cases often involve more complex evidence that an experienced attorney can challenge.
Don't Face Michigan's OWI System Alone
The 14-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. OWI laws in Michigan change frequently. This is not legal advice. Always consult a licensed Michigan OWI attorney for guidance specific to your situation.