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 Vermont, 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 substantial fines, which may amount to thousands of dollars depending on the severity of the offense and any prior convictions. Additionally, Vermont law mandates the suspension of the driver's license for varying durations, again depending on the number of prior offenses and the specific circumstances of the case. Offenders may be required to obtain SR-22 insurance, a type of high-risk auto insurance, which must be maintained for a certain period. Vermont statutes also require individuals convicted of DUI/DWI to complete alcohol and driving education programs. Furthermore, the court may order the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on the offender's vehicle, which prevents the vehicle from starting if the driver's breath alcohol concentration exceeds a preset limit. These civil penalties are designed to deter impaired driving and to promote public safety on the roads.