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 Virginia, the primary offense for operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is called Driving Under the Influence (DUI). Virginia Code Section 18.2-266 makes it illegal to drive or operate any motor vehicle, engine, or train while intoxicated. The law defines intoxication as having a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher, being under the influence of alcohol, a narcotic drug, or any other self-administered intoxicant or drug to a degree that impairs one's ability to drive or operate the vehicle safely. Penalties for DUI in Virginia can include fines, license suspension, and even jail time, depending on the circumstances and whether it is a first or subsequent offense. Additionally, Virginia has a Boating Under the Influence (BUI) law, which prohibits operating a watercraft while intoxicated, as outlined in Virginia Code Section 29.1-738. The BUI law carries similar penalties to DUI offenses. It's important to note that Virginia takes these offenses seriously, and the enforcement of DUI and BUI laws is strict to ensure public safety on both roadways and waterways.