Ohio OVI penalties increase based on the number of prior OVI convictions and whether the current charge is classified as low level, high level, or refusal OVI.
OVI convictions cannot be expunged.
Printable 2026 OVI Penalty Chart (pdf)
Low Level Breath Test for Alcohol: .08 but less than .17
High Level Breath Test for Alcohol: .17 or greater
Refusal: Refusing a requested chemical test (breath, blood, urine, or oral fluid). A refusal often carries more severe initial penalties.
Restricted Plates ("Party Plates"): Distinctive yellow and red license plates that are required on any vehicle you operate, clearly indicating you have an OVI-related suspension.
DUI: Old terminology for an OVI, they mean the same.
Interlock: A car breathalyzer that prevents the vehicle from starting if it detects alcohol. It requires random re-tests while driving. Costs include an installation fee (~$200-$300) and monthly monitoring fees (~$100-$200).
DIP (Drivers Intervention Program): A 72-hour residential program focusing on substance abuse education. It's often held at a hotel and costs approximately $350 - $550.
House Arrest with Electronic Monitoring (HAEM / CAM): Confinement to your home with monitoring, which can be an ankle bracelet (SCRAM/CAM) or other device. This is only an option if the court determines there is a lack of jail space and involves installation and daily fees.
Vehicle Forfeiture: The permanent seizure of your vehicle by the state. Transferring the title to someone else to avoid this can result in a fine equal to the vehicle's value.
