Understanding the Difference: DUI vs DWI, OVI vs DUI and Other Impaired Driving Acronyms Explained

With so many impaired driving acronyms, it can be hard to understand the difference between a DUI vs a DWI, or an OVI vs DUI, etc. There are varying acronyms used across the different states in the US. Terms like DUI, DWI, OWI, and OVI are thrown around, leaving many people wondering about their distinctions. So, let’s clear the air and shed some light on these acronyms and what they mean for you. 

First things first, all these acronyms generally revolve around the same idea: operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. This can also include cases where individuals drive impaired due to prescription drugs. However, the tricky part is that some states use more than one term, and in those cases, the acronyms do have different meanings. 

Impaired Driving Consequences

When it comes to the consequences of impaired driving offenses, they vary from state to state and will likely depend on the amount of alcohol or illegal drugs in your system. In certain cases, individuals may have the option to use an Ignition Interlock Device, which allows them to drive again with a restricted license. The good news is that these devices don’t disrupt your daily routine, as the breath tests required only take a matter of seconds. 

The duration for which an Interlock Device must be installed in a vehicle depends on the state. If you’re unsure whether you need an Interlock Device or a BAIID (Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device), don’t hesitate to reach out to Smart Start. You can give us a call at [corporate phone #] or fill out our online form for a personalized quote.

Impaired Driving Acronym Definitions

Since the list of impaired driving acronyms in so long and there any many definitions, it is easy to get confused. So we’ve created a list of the different terms used in the United States: 

• DUI: Driving Under the Influence
• DWI: Driving While Intoxicated/Impaired
• DUID/DUI-D: Driving Under the Influence of Drugs
• DWAI: Driving While Ability Impaired
• OUI: Operating Under the Influence
• OWI: Operating While Intoxicated/Impaired
• OVUII: Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence of an Intoxicant
• OWVI: Operating While Visibly Impaired
• OUIL: Operating Under the Influence of Liquor
• OUID: Operating Under the Influence of Drugs
• OMVWI: Operating a Motor Vehicle While Impaired/Intoxicated
• RAR: Reckless Driving- Alcohol Related
• UOWI: Underage Operating While Intoxicated

DUI and DWI are the most common and are used by 44 of the states. Some of these acronyms are only used by one state, such as OWVI in Michigan or OVUII in Hawaii. We’ll go more into which state uses which acronym below.

Why are there so many different impaired driving acronyms? 

DUI, DWI, OUI, and OWI are acronyms commonly used to describe impaired driving offenses involving alcohol and/or drugs. However, the specific acronyms and their meanings can vary from state to state, reflecting the differences in impaired driving laws. 

The reason behind this inconsistency lies in the fact that each state has its own definition for impaired driving offenses. Some states felt that the widely accepted term DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) didn’t fully capture cases involving drug impairment. As a result, they adopted different acronyms to distinguish between drug and alcohol impairment. In some instances, states use multiple acronyms interchangeably to encompass both alcohol and drug impairment. Moreover, certain states, such as Ohio, have introduced the term OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) to describe impaired driving offenses involving drugs and/or alcohol. 

Regardless of the specific acronym used, it’s crucial to understand that a DUI, DWI, OUI, or OWI is considered a criminal offense in every state. The legal blood alcohol content or concentration (BAC) limit is typically 0.08% nationwide, except for Utah, where it’s 0.05%. However, underage drivers charged with drunk or impaired driving may face different limits. 

DUI vs DWI and OVI vs DUI

Many states primarily use DUI as their impaired driving acronym but there are a few that use DWI and they can have different definitions. For example, DWI typically refers to driving while intoxicated with a BAC level exceeding the legal limit of 0.08%. It’s a clear-cut case of drunk driving. On the other hand, DUI can encompass situations where a driver is under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Some states even use DUI and DWI interchangeably, adding to the confusion. 

Now, let’s focus on OVI, which stands for Operating a Vehicle while Impaired. OVI is a term used in certain states to describe impaired driving, encompassing both alcohol and drug impairment. Ohio is one state that utilizes OVI as its primary acronym for impaired driving offenses involving drugs and/or alcohol. It’s worth noting that OVI is functionally similar to DUI and DWI in other states. 

Impaired Driving Acronym List by State 

Below is a graphical representation of each state, its acronym for impaired driving, and whether the acronym stands for drugs, alcohol, or both. If there is more than one acronym listed, the state has more than one meaning for impaired driving.

It’s important to keep in mind that impaired driving laws and their associated acronyms can change over time. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the impaired driving laws in your state, it’s best to consult with a legal representative. This information is accurate as of June 2023. 

Why Choose Smart Start?

If you find yourself in a situation where an Ignition Interlock is necessary due to a DUI, DWI, OUI, or OWI charge, you can rely on Smart Start. We are an approved and trusted provider of Ignition Interlock Devices, offering convenient locations, affordable pricing, and friendly service available 24/7/365 to support you throughout your program. Call us to get started today at (800) 831-3299 or fill out our online form below!