Minnesota DUI Laws and Penalties – All You Need to Know

Facing DUI charges in Minnesota can be more than daunting, especially if you’re unsure of your rights or how your legal proceedings will work. Regardless of whether you’re facing a charge, having a strong understanding of Minnesota DUI laws and penalties is crucial to ensure you can protect yourself and your loved ones from potential legal challenges and harmful convictions.

DWI Statistics in Minnesota

Minnesota has some of the most DUI convictions across the country, with rates that are twice the national average. In 2024 alone, there were 18,053 DWI arrests and 5,820 DWI search warrants reported in the state by the end of September. According to recent data, approximately one in seven drivers in Minnesota has at least one DWI.

Keeping the roads safe is an important task, and it involves bringing drunk drivers to justice. That said, DUI penalties can be incredibly harsh sometimes, so it’s important to understand exactly how local laws work and how they can impact you. A knowledgeable Minnesota DUI lawyer is an invaluable resource who can guide you through the legal process of a DWI while helping you understand your rights and legal options.

DWI Charges in Minnesota

Being charged with a DWI anywhere in Minnesota can have lasting consequences, even if you are not convicted. However, it’s important to note that the more convictions you receive, the more severe your punishment will be. The following are the various levels of DWIs in Minnesota:

• First DWI Offense. While getting a DWI is always a serious issue in Minnesota, a first-time offender can expect to see less severe consequences than a repeat offender with three or four convictions. However, a first-time offender can still receive harsh consequences if aggravating factors were present. Without any aggravating factors, a first-time DWI in Minnesota is a misdemeanor.
• Second DWI Offense. A second DWI offense in Minnesota brings harsher penalties, including larger fines, longer license suspensions, and longer jail sentences. A second DWI offense is still generally considered a misdemeanor.
• Third and Subsequent DWI Offenses. If you receive three or more DWIs within a 10-year period in Minnesota, you can expect to be charged with a felony. Felony DWIs are much more serious than misdemeanors and can have a lasting impact on almost every area of your life. It’s wise to reach out to a Minnesota DUI attorney as soon as you are facing a potential charge.

A Local Minnesota DUI Attorney You Can Count On

A DWI conviction in Minnesota can change your life forever. From threatening future career and housing opportunities to harming your personal life, it’s crucial that you work with a skilled Minnesota DUI attorney who can help you learn more about the state’s laws and how they can impact you.

At Santana Law, PLLC, our legal team shares comprehensive experience navigating complex criminal cases throughout Minnesota and beyond. Our founding attorney, Ronnie Santana, has diverse legal experience as a civil litigator, defense attorney, and prosecutor. He’s seen the Minnesota justice system from every angle and uses that knowledge to formulate the right defense for his clients. He also leverages that knowledge to help clients understand their rights.

No matter the details of your case, you can count on our team to be there for you. After evaluating your case and pinpointing areas of weakness, we can begin gathering evidence for your defense and launch our own investigation into the prosecution to invalidate their claims. Additionally, we can be there to answer your questions and provide any additional support you need throughout the process.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Penalty for a First-Time DUI in Minnesota?

A: A first-time DUI is considered a misdemeanor in Minnesota and is typically punishable by fines, license suspension, potential IID installation, completion of a substance abuse course, and potential jail time. It’s likely that your DUI attorney can negotiate an alternative to jail, especially for a first-time offense. However, the penalties you receive depend on the severity of your charge and the unique details that surround it.

Q: Do I Have to Hire a DUI Lawyer If I Get a DWI in Minnesota?

A: You are not obligated to work with an attorney after being charged with DWI in Minnesota. However, it is highly recommended, as a skilled attorney can fight for reduced or even dismissed charges on your behalf. A DWI attorney has the legal knowledge and resources needed to investigate claims, collect witnesses, and build a defense that works toward the most optimal outcome in your case.

Q: What Are the New DUI Laws in Minnesota?

A: In May 2025, Minnesota introduced stricter DWI laws for repeat offenders. The bill extends the amount of time DWI offenders may be required to have an IID installed and specifies the time a driver must be in an IID program before they can have their driver’s license reinstated. License revocation periods have also been extended due to these changes.

Q: Are DUIs Charged as Felonies or Misdemeanors in Minnesota?

A: Under Minnesota law, a DWI without any aggravating factors is considered a misdemeanor. Generally, a second DUI offense is also typically classified as a misdemeanor. If you receive three or more DUIs in a 10-year period, however, you can expect to be charged with a felony. Aggravating factors, such as causing serious bodily injury, can also escalate your charges. You should consult with a DWI lawyer to better understand the exact charges you’re facing.

Hire a DUI Lawyer That Can Protect Your Rights in Minnesota

Navigating DWI charges can be challenging on your own, especially if you’re not familiar with the law or how DUI cases work. A skilled Minnesota DWI attorney can help you understand your rights and legal options while fighting to get your charges reduced or dropped.

At Santana Law, PLLC, we’re devoted to protecting the rights of Minnesota residents. Whether you’re facing a DWI charge or you’re looking to learn more about the process on behalf of a loved one, our team is here to help you. Contact the office today to set up a consultation with a trusted DWI lawyer in Minnesota.