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First-Time OVI in Ohio: Penalties, License Suspension, and What to Expect

Were you recently arrested for operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs (OVI) in Ohio for the first time? Here’s what to expect next and what consequences you may face if you’re convicted.

In Ohio, the law considers an OVI offense a “first offense” if a driver has not had a prior OVI offense within the past ten years. The penalties imposed for a first-time OVI offense will depend on the degree of a driver’s intoxication at the time of their arrest or whether they have a record of previously refusing a chemical test after an OVI arrest within the past 20 years.

For a driver charged with simple OVI (BAC under 0.08 percent), a low BAC test result (0.08 percent or more but less than 0.17 percent), or driving under the influence of drugs, penalties may include:

  • Three days in jail or admission to the Driver Intervention Program (DIP)
  • Up to six months in jail unless granted unlimited driving privileges (UDP)
  • Fine of $565 to $1,075

For a driver charged with a high BAC test result (0.17 percent or more) or with a prior refusal of chemical testing within the past 20 years, penalties for a conviction can include:

  • Six days in jail, or three days in jail with DIP
  • Up to six months in jail unless granted unlimited driving privileges (UDP)
  • Fine of $565 to $1,075

Furthermore, drivers under 21 arrested for a first OVI offense may face additional penalties that include:

  • Up to 30 days in jail
  • A fine of up to $250

Ohio OVI penalties were updated effective April 9, 2025, and most carry stiffer fines and longer incarceration periods. You will want to consult a lawyer to learn which apply to you.

Licenses Suspensions and Loss of Driving Privileges

A first OVI offense in Ohio also carries a driver’s license suspension of one to three years. However, a motorist may be able to apply for reinstatement of their license after serving a 15-day suspension. Underage drivers convicted of a first OVI offense will have their licenses suspended from 90 days to two years. An underage driver may petition for reinstatement of driving privileges after serving at least 60 days of suspension.

What to Expect After an OVI Arrest

Once they arrest you on suspicion of OVI, the police will transport you to the police station for booking and to perform a breathalyzer test. However, if officers want to conduct a blood test, they may transport you to the hospital for a blood draw. After processing at the police station, the prosecuting attorney will notify you of your arraignment/initial hearing, during which the court will read your charges to you and take your plea. Your case will eventually reach trial if you do not negotiate a plea agreement or alternative disposition of your charges with the prosecutor.

Contact an OVI Defense Attorney

Get the experienced legal guidance and advocacy you need to protect your rights and interests after an OVI arrest. Contact The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc today for a free, confidential consultation with our legal team to discuss your options for resolving a first-time OVI charge.
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