Massachusetts DUI Classification
Massachusetts uses your blood alcohol content (BAC) to determine whether you're legally driving under the influence. Below are the BAC limits and their corresponding ages or qualifiers:
MASSACHUSETTS IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICE PROGRAM
In 2005, “Melanie’s Law” came into effect which increased the penalties for operating a motor vehicle under the influence (OUI) of alcohol or controlled substances. It also established the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) program, which requires multiple OUI offenders to install an IID for a prescribed period of time.
1. | Completing your suspension period determined by your court order |
2. | Paying all fines, including any additional court costs |
3. | Serving jail time as determined by your court order |
4. | Completing an alcohol education program or other required education classes |
5. | Paying your license reinstatement fee, ranging from $100 to $1,200 |
6. | Sometimes, drivers must also re-apply for their license (includes taking all the required tests, paying applicable fees) |
A hardship license is a restricted license in that it allows you to drive for a set 12 hour period, 7 days a week. Offenders who qualify as a first time OUI/ DUI offenders can apply for a Hardship License three days after entry of conviction or plea. Applicants who have multiple OUI/ DUI convictions are required to serve a portion of the suspension before applying for a Hardship License. Melanie’s Law requires that an IID be installed and used by both drivers with a conditional “hardship” driver’s license and by those operators whose drivers’ licenses are eligible for reinstatement following completion of the OUI license suspension or revocation periods.
1. | Apply for a hardship license from the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) if your regular driver's license has been revoked due to a first-time OUI offense |
1. | Request an OUI hardship license from the RMV if your driver's license has been revoked AND you meet the qualifications for this particular type of license |
Both forms and additional state information can be found at https://www.dmv.org/ma-massachusetts/automotive-law/dui.php.