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In Hawaii, an arrest for Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence of an Intoxicant (OVUII) comes with several financial consequences. One of the most immediate concerns for most people is the cost. While jail time and license suspension are serious outcomes, the fines and fees associated with an OVUII can be substantial — even for a first offense.
This post provides a detailed breakdown of OVUII fines in Hawaii, including how they’re calculated, what other financial obligations may apply, and how costs increase for repeat offenses. It also explains the difference between base fines and total costs once surcharges, assessments, and additional penalties are added in.
Understanding the financial scope of an OVUII is important for anyone who wants a realistic picture of what to expect after an arrest — or is simply trying to learn more about Hawaii’s impaired driving laws.
Base Fines for a First OVUII Offense in Hawaii
A first-time OVUII offense in Hawaii carries a minimum base fine of $250, but this is only the beginning. The law sets ranges for minimum and maximum fines, allowing courts to impose higher penalties based on circumstances.
Here’s a breakdown of typical first-offense fines:
- Base fine: $250–$1,000
- Neurotrauma surcharge: $25 (mandatory)
- Trauma system surcharge: $25 (mandatory)
- Substance abuse assessment fee: Varies
- Driver education program fee: Varies (often required)
- Court costs and administrative fees: Varies by county
In practice, most first-time offenders can expect to pay between $500 and $1,200 in total fines and fees — not including license reinstatement or ignition interlock costs.
These fines apply whether or not jail time is ordered and regardless of whether the court suspends some parts of the sentence. Fines are separate from criminal penalties and are always assessed upon conviction.
Financial Penalties for Second OVUII Offenses
Second OVUII offenses in Hawaii — within ten years of a prior conviction — result in higher mandatory fines. The court has less flexibility, and additional penalties are typically imposed.
Here’s what to expect:
- Base fine: $1,000–$3,000
- Increased surcharges: $25–$50 or more
- Ignition interlock requirement: Mandatory, paid out of pocket
- Substance abuse treatment or education: Often required, and not free
- Jail or community service: May lead to lost income or additional expenses
Altogether, second-time offenders in Hawaii often face $1,500 to $3,500 or more in fines, fees, and related costs. Many of these are due up front, while others are tied to program completion or license reinstatement.
These financial consequences reflect the state’s increased penalties for repeat impaired driving behavior and its focus on deterrence through escalating costs.
Penalties for Refusing a Chemical Test
Hawaii has implied consent laws, which means drivers who refuse a breath, blood, or urine test face automatic penalties — including separate financial costs.
Common fines and fees for refusal cases include:
- Administrative license revocation: May require a fee to reinstate
- Ignition interlock installation: Required for conditional driving
- Monetary penalty: While not always classified as a “fine,” refusal results in added financial obligations
Although not a criminal conviction by itself, refusal often leads to costs similar to an OVUII conviction, especially if the case proceeds to court.
Refusing a test does not eliminate fines — it often increases them due to the added administrative and procedural consequences.
Other Financial Consequences Beyond the Court Fine
In Hawaii, the listed fines are just part of the total cost of an OVUII. Other common expenses include:
- Ignition interlock device: $70–$100/month, plus installation fees
- Substance abuse classes: $150–$500+
- Driver education: Required for some offenders, at personal cost
- License reinstatement fee: Usually $50–$100
- Towing and impound fees: Can range from $100 to $500
- Increased auto insurance: Often $1,000+ per year for several years
- Time off work or lost wages: For court dates, classes, or jail time
Taken together, these non-court costs often raise the total financial impact of an OVUII to $2,000 to $5,000+ — even for a first offense.
None of these are optional. They are either court-ordered, mandated by the Hawaii Department of Transportation, or required by insurers to maintain coverage.
Fines for Aggravated or Felony OVUII Cases
While most OVUII cases in Hawaii are misdemeanors, some situations qualify as felony OVUII, which results in substantially higher fines and longer-term costs.
Examples of felony-level circumstances include:
- Three or more OVUII convictions within 10 years
- Causing injury or death while impaired
- Driving with a minor in the vehicle while impaired
In these cases, base fines can rise to $2,000 to $5,000 or more, and may be combined with:
- Civil liability for injuries
- Mandatory imprisonment
- Vehicle forfeiture
- Extended interlock and supervision periods
The financial impact of felony OVUII cases often exceeds $10,000, especially when legal representation and restitution are factored in.
How Payment of Fines Works in Hawaii
In most OVUII cases, Hawaii courts allow payment plans or structured installment options. These are typically arranged during sentencing and must be followed exactly to avoid further penalties.
Key facts about paying fines:
- Fines are due upon sentencing unless a payment plan is requested
- Failure to pay can result in license holds, added fees, or contempt proceedings
- Payment must be made through the court or approved online system
- Some counties charge service fees for installment payments
Fines must be paid regardless of other penalties. Even if someone serves jail time or completes community service, the fines remain mandatory.
Frequently Asked Questions About OVUII Fines in Hawaii
What’s the minimum fine for a first OVUII in Hawaii?
The base fine starts at $250, but total costs with fees are usually closer to $500–$1,200.
Do all OVUII convictions include a fine?
Yes. A financial penalty is mandatory upon conviction, even if no jail time is ordered.
Can fines be reduced or waived?
Courts may consider payment plans, but waiving fines entirely is rare and case-dependent.
Are fines higher for refusing a breath test?
Yes. Refusal adds administrative penalties that often carry additional fees.
Is there financial assistance for paying OVUII fines?
No formal assistance programs exist, but courts may allow structured payments.
How much does an ignition interlock cost?
Approximately $70–$100 per month, plus $100–$200 for installation and maintenance.
Can OVUII fines affect insurance?
Yes. Insurance rates typically rise sharply after a conviction and may remain elevated for years.
Conclusion
Fines for OVUII convictions in Hawaii are only the beginning of the total financial cost. From base penalties and surcharges to interlock devices and license reinstatement, expenses can add up quickly — even for first-time offenders. Hawaii’s structure is designed to enforce accountability through mandatory financial consequences.
For a deeper look at common OVUII fines and financial penalties in Hawaii and how they fit into the broader penalty structure for OVUII offenses, it’s important to understand all of the mandatory costs that apply after an arrest or conviction.