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 Minnesota, civil penalties for DUI/DWI (driving under the influence/driving while impaired) are indeed separate from criminal charges and can be quite severe. Upon conviction for DUI/DWI, the state can impose hefty fines that can reach into the thousands of dollars. The driver's license can be suspended for varying periods depending on the number of prior offenses and the severity of the current offense. Minnesota law also requires drivers convicted of DUI/DWI to obtain SR-22 insurance, which is a certificate of financial responsibility that proves the driver carries the minimum required insurance; this type of insurance is typically more expensive. Offenders may be mandated to complete alcohol rehabilitation or treatment programs, as well as DUI/DWI educational courses. Additionally, 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 impaired driving and to promote public safety on the roads.