Chapter 4: DUI / DWI Laws

Use this guide to prepare for the exam, and refer to the official manual for complete details.

Driving is a privilege that requires sound judgment and full concentration. Driving while intoxicated (DWI) by alcohol or drugs is one of the most dangerous decisions a person can make, leading to thousands of preventable deaths and injuries each year. Understanding Arkansas’s strict DWI laws is not just for passing an exam; it is essential for protecting your life, your freedom, and the lives of everyone else on the road.

In Arkansas, it is illegal to operate or be in actual physical control of a motor vehicle while intoxicated. This offense, commonly known as DWI (Driving While Intoxicated), is not limited to alcohol. A driver can be convicted of DWI if their ability to drive is impaired by alcohol, a controlled substance (illegal drugs), or any other drug, including prescription or over-the-counter medications.

A chart compares four standard drinks—1.5 ounces of whiskey, 5 ounces of wine, 8–9 ounces of a cocktail, and 12 ounces of beer—indicating they are equivalent in alcohol content.

The state uses Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) as the standard measure for alcohol impairment. It is a per se violation to drive with a BAC at or above a specific legal limit, meaning no further evidence of impairment is needed for a conviction.

  • 21 or Older: The legal BAC limit is 0.08%.
  • Under 21: Arkansas has a zero-tolerance policy. The legal BAC limit is 0.02%. This low threshold means that even a single drink can put an underage driver over the legal limit.
  • Commercial Drivers (CDL): The legal BAC limit is 0.04% when operating a commercial vehicle.

Implied Consent Law

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