There are various criminal charges for operating a motorized, electric, or otherwise-powered transportation device on public roadways or waterways while under the influence of or intoxicated by drugs or alcohol, as defined by state law. DUI, DWI, OUI, OWI, and BUI—driving under the influence, driving while intoxicated, operating under the influence, operating while intoxicated, and boating under the influence—are some of the common names for such impaired-driving or impaired-operating criminal offenses.

Laws regarding the definitions and names of such alcohol and drug-related driving offenses vary from state to state and are usually located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal code or criminal code.

In Minnesota, the primary statutes governing impaired driving offenses are found in Chapter 169A of the Minnesota Statutes, which covers Driving While Impaired (DWI) laws. These laws prohibit operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or intoxicating substances. The term DWI is commonly used in Minnesota and encompasses various levels of offenses based on factors such as blood alcohol concentration (BAC), prior offenses, and aggravating factors. Minnesota law also includes regulations for operating other types of vehicles while impaired, such as boats, snowmobiles, and ATVs, under the same or similar statutes. Boating Under the Influence (BUI) is specifically addressed under Section 86B.331 of the Minnesota Statutes, which makes it illegal to operate a watercraft while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Penalties for DWI and BUI offenses in Minnesota can include fines, jail time, driver's license suspension, and mandatory participation in educational programs or treatment.