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 South Carolina, civil penalties for DUI/DWI (driving under the influence/driving while intoxicated) are indeed separate from criminal charges and can be quite severe. Upon conviction of a DUI/DWI, the state can impose hefty fines that may amount to thousands of dollars. Additionally, the driver's license of the convicted individual is subject to suspension, which can vary in duration depending on the severity of the offense and any prior convictions. South Carolina law may also require the convicted person to obtain SR-22 insurance, which is a form of high-risk auto insurance that typically comes at a higher cost. Furthermore, the state may mandate the completion of alcohol and drug safety action program courses or alcohol rehabilitation/treatment. Lastly, for certain offenses, especially repeat offenses, the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on the offender's vehicle is required. This device prevents the vehicle from starting if the driver's breath alcohol concentration exceeds a preset limit. The specific regulations and requirements for these civil penalties are detailed in South Carolina's statutes, which can be found in sections related to motor vehicles and traffic regulations.