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 Pennsylvania (PA), civil penalties for DUI/DWI convictions are indeed separate from criminal charges and can be quite severe. These penalties are outlined in the state's Vehicle Code rather than the penal or criminal code. Upon conviction for DUI/DWI, the state may impose fines that can range into thousands of dollars depending on the severity of the offense and the number of prior offenses. A driver's license suspension is also a standard civil penalty, with the length of suspension varying based on the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level and prior offenses. Pennsylvania requires DUI offenders to carry SR-22 insurance, which is a form of high-risk auto insurance, for a period after their license is reinstated. Additionally, offenders may be required to complete alcohol education programs or treatment. For repeat offenders or those with high BAC levels, the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in their vehicles is mandatory to regain driving privileges. These civil penalties are designed to deter DUI/DWI offenses and to promote public safety on the roads.