📅 2026 Update: Changes to Indiana Traffic Fines and OWI Laws

Since the original article was published, Indiana has made several updates to its traffic fines and Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) laws. These changes include increased penalties for repeat offenders and new rules regarding ignition interlock devices. For more details, you can continue reading the earlier article further down the page.

🚨 Repeat Offender Penalties

As of July 1, 2026, penalties for repeat OWI offenders have changed. The minimum jail time for someone with one prior OWI conviction has increased from 5 days to 10 days. For those with two prior convictions, the minimum jail time increased from 10 days to 20 days.

This change aims to deter repeat offenses and improve road safety.

🔑 Ignition Interlock Device Updates

The law now states that courts can only order ignition interlock devices when the OWI involved alcohol. This means that if a driver is convicted of an OWI involving controlled substances, an ignition interlock device cannot be mandated. This change could impact how penalties are enforced for those who have been charged with OWIs.

🚤 Boating Under the Influence

Indiana's OWI laws now include watercraft under the definition of "vehicle." This change repeals the separate boating-while-intoxicated offense. Drivers operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs now face similar penalties as those for vehicle OWIs, making the laws more consistent.

💔 Chemical Testing After Fatal Crashes

In a significant change, officers are now required to offer a chemical test to any driver involved in a fatal crash. This includes blood tests to determine if the driver was under the influence. The goal is to gather more accurate information in the event of a tragedy on the road.

📌 Key Points to Remember

  • Repeat Offender Penalties increased jail time for those with prior convictions.
  • Ignition Interlock Devices are limited to alcohol-related offenses.
  • Boating Under the Influence laws now align with vehicle OWI laws.
  • Chemical Testing is mandatory after fatal crashes.

💡 Tips for Handling OWI Charges in Indiana

It is important to go over the details of your own situation with your attorney.

⚖️ Understand Your Charges

Knowing the specifics of your OWI charge is crucial. Different penalties apply depending on your blood alcohol content (BAC) level and whether you have prior offenses. Be aware of the potential consequences you could face.

⏱️ Apply for Specialized Driving Privileges

If your license is suspended, consider applying for specialized driving privileges. This allows you to drive under certain conditions during your suspension period. Be sure to follow the application process promptly after your initial hearing.

🛡️ Know the Implied Consent Law

When you drive in Indiana, you automatically consent to chemical testing if an officer requests it. Refusing a test can lead to a mandatory license suspension. Understanding this law can help you make informed decisions if stopped by law enforcement.

🚨 Be Aware of DUI Checkpoints

Indiana allows DUI checkpoints, which are legal and can be used by law enforcement to check for impaired drivers. Knowing that these checkpoints exist can prepare you for what to expect when driving in Indiana.

💡 Understand the Costs Involved

Be prepared for various fines and costs associated with your OWI charge. These may include court costs, fines, and potential installation fees for ignition interlock devices. Understanding the financial implications can help you plan ahead.

🏆 Indiana Traffic Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section reviews various services related to traffic and OWI matters in Indiana, based on Trustpilot ratings checked in October 2026. Each entry provides insight into what the service is known for, along with any caveats noted by users. While star ratings can provide a snapshot of service quality, it's important to remember that unhappy customers tend to leave more reviews, and experiences can vary.

🥇 1. RushTranslate

RushTranslate has been rated 4.8. It is known for its certified translation services and fast turnaround times, which can be essential for legal documents related to OWI charges. Reviewers appreciate the 24/7 live chat support, but some have experienced occasional issues with document formatting upon delivery.

🥈 2. MotaWord

MotaWord holds a 4.94 rating. This service is recognized for providing document translation and interpretation services, which can be useful in legal settings. They are especially noted for their certified translation for USCIS and legal purposes.

However, some users have reported delays in customer support response times, so it's wise to plan ahead.

🆓 Free Government and Nonprofit Help

The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) offers valuable resources for individuals facing OWI charges. They provide information on hearings and necessary forms. Additionally, the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute has resources on impaired driving.

Local legal aid organizations may also offer free or low-cost legal assistance.

🔎 What to Compare When Choosing Services

  • 🏆 Trustpilot Ratings: Look at overall ratings and review counts.
  • 💬 Known For: Understand the services offered and their relevance to your needs.
  • ⚠️ Caveats: Be aware of any common complaints or issues mentioned by reviewers.
  • ⏳ Turnaround Time: Consider how quickly services can be provided, especially for legal matters.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❔ What are the penalties for a first OWI offense in Indiana?

A first OWI offense with a BAC of 0.08% to 0.14% can result in up to 60 days in jail, a fine up to $500, and a 60-day license suspension. For a BAC of 0.15% or higher, penalties include up to 1 year in jail and a license suspension of up to 1 year.

🚦 How can I apply for specialized driving privileges?

To apply for specialized driving privileges, individuals must attend an initial hearing. If eligible, they can submit an application to the court to operate a vehicle during their suspension period.

🚔 What happens if I refuse to take a chemical test?

Refusing a chemical test results in a mandatory license suspension of one year for a first refusal. If there is a prior OWI conviction, the suspension increases to two years.

⚖️ What is the new law regarding chemical testing after fatal crashes?

Officers are now required to offer a chemical test, including a blood test, to any driver involved in a fatal crash. This change aims to gather more accurate information during investigations.

📅 How long does a license suspension last in Indiana?

A license suspension in Indiana begins seven days after the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) mails the notice to the driver. The duration of the suspension depends on the specific circumstances of the OWI charge.

💼 Can I get an ignition interlock device for a controlled substances OWI?

No, courts can now only order ignition interlock devices for OWIs involving alcohol. If the OWI involved controlled substances, an ignition interlock device cannot be mandated.

⚖️ Recent Court Cases Related to OWI Laws

There have been recent court rulings concerning Indiana's OWI laws and related penalties. These rulings reflect ongoing changes in how such cases are handled in the state.

For further information, you can browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update






Guide to Indiana Traffic Fines



 



 

Indiana Traffic Fines


When you see the lights flashing behind you in Indiana and pull over for a police officer, you may be wondering what kind of traffic fines you may have to pay.  Traffic violations can be expensive and cause your insurance premiums to raise sharply, so understanding what kind of Indiana traffic fines to expect is important.  This guide will explain some of the most common traffic violations in Indiana and tell you what kind of Indiana traffic fines you can expect when being charged with an offense for the first time.



 



 



Please keep in mind that these numbers, unless otherwise noted, apply only to first-time offenders.  People who have offended multiple times are often assessed significantly higher fines.  You may also have to pay much higher Indiana traffic fines if your traffic offense caused an accident or endangered the people around you.



 



 



Civil Infraction or Misdemeanor?



 



 



While it may feel like you've been charged with a crime, most traffic tickets are actually for civil infractions.  A civil infraction is not a criminal charge and carries no possibility of jail time.  That doesn't mean a civil infraction has no consequences, though—you will still have to pay Indiana traffic fines, your license may be suspended, and your insurance rates may rise substantially.



 



 



None of those consequences can compare to the consequences of being charged with misdemeanors, however.  Misdemeanors carry all the same penalties as civil infractions, including Indiana traffic fines, but you can also be forced to serve time in jail if you are convicted of a misdemeanor.  Most misdemeanor charges will not result in a jail sentence, especially for a first-time offender, but if you are charged with some serious traffic offenses (like DUI) you should expect some jail time in addition to Indiana traffic fines being imposed.



 



 



Speeding Tickets



 



 



If you are given a speeding ticket in the state of Indiana, in general, it will be a civil infraction.  Indiana traffic fines for speeding tickets are significantly higher than the national average, but will cost no more than $500.  If you have committed several other traffic offenses besides speeding in recent years, your license may also be suspended for up to a year at the court's discretion.



 



 



Your Indiana traffic fines will be even higher (by at least $300, more for repeat offenses) for speeding in a work zone.  This additional fine applies to all work zones, even when workers are not present at the time.  If your speed is truly excessive, you may be charged with reckless driving, a misdemeanor.  This charge carries a punishment of Indiana traffic fines up to $1000 and up to 180 days in jail.  Your license will also be suspended for a period of up to one year if you are convicted of reckless driving in Indiana.



 



 



Driving with a Suspended License



 



 



If you drive with a suspended license in Indiana, you will be charged with a misdemeanor.  Indiana traffic fines for this misdemeanor can be up to $500, and your license will be assessed 8 points and its suspension lengthened.  In addition, you may have to serve up to 60 days in county jail.