In addition to any criminal charges for DUI/DWI, a state may assess civil (non-criminal) penalties against a person convicted of DUI/DWI. Civil penalties may include (1) thousands of dollars of fines; (2) suspension of the driver’s license; (3) requirements for additional insurance; (4) completion of alcohol rehabilitation/treatment and DUI/DWI intervention courses; and (5) installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on the driver’s motor vehicle.

The laws regarding civil penalties for DUI/DWI convictions are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal code or criminal code.

In California, civil penalties for DUI/DWI convictions are indeed separate from criminal charges and can be quite severe. Upon conviction, the state can impose hefty fines that can reach thousands of dollars. Additionally, the driver's license may be suspended for a period that varies depending on the number of prior offenses and the specific circumstances of the case. California law also requires drivers convicted of DUI to obtain SR-22 insurance, which is a certificate of financial responsibility that proves the driver carries the state's minimum required insurance; this often results in higher insurance premiums. Convicted individuals may be mandated to complete DUI education programs or alcohol treatment/rehabilitation programs. Furthermore, the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on the offender's vehicle is a common requirement, especially for repeat offenders or in cases with high blood alcohol concentration levels. These civil penalties are designed to deter DUI/DWI offenses and to promote public safety on the roads.