What are the DUI insurance laws in Washington?
A BAC level of 0.08 or higher is enough for a DUI arrest in WA. Expecting penalties including jail time, fines up to $5,000, and SR-22 requirements for at least three years.
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Kalyn Johnson
Insurance Claims Support & Sr. Adjuster
Kalyn grew up in an insurance family with a grandfather, aunt, and uncle leading successful careers as insurance agents. She soon found she has similar interests and followed in their footsteps. After spending about ten years working in the insurance industry as both an appraiser dispatcher and a senior property claims adjuster, she decided to combine her years of insurance experience with another...
Insurance Claims Support & Sr. Adjuster
UPDATED: Apr 15, 2024
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UPDATED: Apr 15, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident car insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one car insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single company.
Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from top car companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
- Washington has several DUI laws that govern the process of dealing with people who decide to drink and drive
- Increasing penalties for DUI convictions in Washington are based on a first, second or third offense
- In some instances, drivers may have the option to contest or appeal a license suspension from a DUI arrest
The Evergreen State is the 18th largest state with six prominent geographical lands areas that help to make the beautiful scenic byways for which Washington is known.
Residents and tourists alike can experience the breathtaking views of a rainforest, volcanoes, rivers, streams, a desert, and wine country within one state.
This picturesque driving experience does not negate the fact that Washington has its share of drunk drivers.
If you need Washington car insurance, you can get price quotes from area car insurance companies today for FREE with our quote comparison tool above!
Washington State DUI Laws
Washington has a standard DUI law similar to most states. Additionally, a new law was passed in 2011 aimed at further prevention of DUI accidents.
It is illegal for anyone to drive a vehicle in Washington state while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
The typical physical signs of intoxication are not necessary when law enforcement stops a person. Suspicion and a chemical test that shows a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or more is enough for an arrest.
Washington DUI insurance laws include a statue for drivers under age 21. The blood alcohol level for drivers under 21 is 0.02 – 0.08. Drivers can face a 90-day license suspension.
Those with an alcohol level above 0.08 will face the same penalties as a driver over 21.
In July 2011, Washington began recognizing a new law called Hailey’s Law that requires car towing for all DUI arrests.
The vehicles must remain impounded for a minimum 12 hours. The vehicle can be released to a registered owner who was not present during the arrest before the 12 hours expire.
Washington also has enforced an Implied Consent Law.
Driving the roadways and highways of Washington is an automatic consent to the following:
- blood test
- breath test
- field sobriety test
Law enforcement can require a driver take one or all of these tests. Refusal to take the tests could result in a revocation of the driver’s license.
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Penalties for DUI Offenses in Washington State
A first offense DUI is considered a misdemeanor offense and may result in the following penalties:
- One day or up to one year in jail
- 15-day house arrest in lieu of jail time
- Fines between $350 and $5,000
- Suspended license for 90 days
A first offense conviction may qualify for an Occupational/Restricted Driver License (ORL) after the first 30 days of a suspension.
A second offense is a gross misdemeanor under Washington law and the penalties include:
- Jail time of 30 days or up to one year
- Fines of $500 to $5,000 in fines
- Driver’s license suspension for two years
With a third offense within seven years, drivers face the following penalties:
- 120 days minimum of jail time; maximum jail time is one year
- 150 days home monitoring; five years monitored probation
- $500 to $5,000 in fines and court costs
- Four-year license revocation and then five-year probationary license
- Up to 10 years of an ignition interlock device on personal vehicle
Washington State DUI Insurance Options
When a driver is convicted of a DUI offense in Washington, he or she is required to purchase SR22 insurance. This is a high-risk car insurance policy that costs more than standard insurance.
Most drivers are required to carry SR22 insurance for at least three years.
Over time, this can become extremely expensive. Several insurance carriers licensed in Washington state offer SR22 insurance policies.
If you are classified as a high-risk driver, insurance companies are likely going to charge you prices much higher than the average car insurance rates.
Even though this is an expensive policy, drivers should comparison shop for car insurance quotes from several different carriers.
Contesting or Appealing Suspension in Washington State
Specific facts surrounding the case will determine whether the appeal of a license suspension is granted.
Typically, a driver has 20 days after the arrest to request a hearing either online or by mail. There is a $200 fee to request a hearing. This fee will not be refunded if the driver fails to appear or cancels the hearing date.
The online request is submitted through the Washington State Department of Licensing.
The driver must include:
- Driver’s license number
- Arrest date
- Identifying number
- Daytime telephone number
- Valid credit card
Drivers can also mail a request for a hearing to contest or appeal a DUI conviction. Typically, law enforcement will give the driver a request form at the time of arrest.
The form must be completed and postmarked or received within 20 days after an arrest.
Be sure to try our FREE quote comparison tool below to see if you can find a company that offers lower high-risk car insurance rates!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the DUI insurance laws in Washington?
In Washington, driving under the influence (DUI) is illegal. If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08 or higher, you can be arrested for a DUI. Penalties may include jail time, fines up to $5,000, and SR-22 insurance requirements for at least three years.
What is SR-22 insurance?
SR-22 insurance is a high-risk car insurance policy that is required for drivers who have been convicted of a DUI or other serious driving offenses. It provides proof of financial responsibility and is typically more expensive than standard insurance.
How long do I need to carry SR-22 insurance in Washington?
If you are convicted of a DUI in Washington, you are typically required to carry SR-22 insurance for at least three years. It’s important to maintain continuous coverage during this period to comply with the state’s requirements.
Can I contest or appeal a license suspension for a DUI in Washington?
Yes, you have the option to contest or appeal a license suspension for a DUI in Washington. You must request a hearing within 20 days after the arrest and pay a $200 fee. The specific facts of your case will determine whether the appeal is granted.
How can I find affordable car insurance with a DUI conviction in Washington?
Finding affordable car insurance with a DUI conviction can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. It’s important to shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurance companies. While high-risk drivers may face higher premiums, comparing rates can help you find the best available options.
Free Car Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap car insurance rates.
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Kalyn Johnson
Insurance Claims Support & Sr. Adjuster
Kalyn grew up in an insurance family with a grandfather, aunt, and uncle leading successful careers as insurance agents. She soon found she has similar interests and followed in their footsteps. After spending about ten years working in the insurance industry as both an appraiser dispatcher and a senior property claims adjuster, she decided to combine her years of insurance experience with another...
Insurance Claims Support & Sr. Adjuster
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.