New Jersey DWI Penalties
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in New Jersey attracts a bunch of penalties that includes fines, charges and surcharges, imprisonment or mandatory counseling. In this state there is no difference between DWI and DUI (Driving Under the Influence). A first-time offender with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.08% can expect a fine of $250 to $400, a jail term not exceeding 30 days, and suspension of his license for three months. Additionally, there will be a New Jersey Motor Vehicles Commission (NJMVC) surcharge of $1,000 per year for three years, and payments of $200 to the DWI Enforcement Fund, $50 to the Violent Crimes Compensation Fund, $75 to the Safe Neighborhood Fund, and $200 for license restoration. He will also have to undergo counseling for 12 to 48 hours at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC), which may cost $150, and extra payment if outpatient counseling is stipulated by the IDRC. For a first offense, if the alcohol count is 0.
