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 Illinois, civil penalties for DUI/DWI convictions are indeed separate from criminal charges and can be quite severe. Upon conviction for DUI/DWI, the state can impose fines that may reach thousands of dollars. Additionally, the driver's license of the convicted individual is typically suspended or revoked, depending on the severity of the offense and prior history. Illinois law may also require the convicted person to obtain additional insurance, such as SR-22 insurance, which is a financial responsibility certification that proves the individual carries the state's minimum required insurance. This can significantly increase insurance premiums. Furthermore, completion of alcohol education programs, rehabilitation, or DUI intervention courses may be mandated. Lastly, the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on the offender's vehicle is a common requirement, especially for repeat offenders or those with high blood alcohol concentration levels at the time of arrest. These civil penalties are designed to deter DUI/DWI offenses and to promote public safety on the roads.