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 South Carolina, the primary statute governing the operation of motor vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs is referred to as 'Driving Under the Influence' (DUI). Under South Carolina Code of Laws Section 56-5-2930, it is illegal to drive a motor vehicle within the state while under the influence of alcohol to the extent that one's faculties to drive are materially and appreciably impaired. This also applies to driving while under the influence of any drug, combination of drugs, or intoxicants. The state also has a specific statute for Boating Under the Influence (BUI) under Section 50-21-112, which prohibits operating a watercraft while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Penalties for DUI and BUI offenses can include fines, imprisonment, and the suspension of driving or boating privileges, depending on the severity of the offense and the number of prior convictions.