DUI, DWI, and More Acronyms

As laws regarding driving under the influence of alcohol vary by state, so do the terms used to describe it and related offenses — DUI and DWI are just the beginning!

What follows is a list of the acronyms used in various states to describe the crime and various aspects related to it, along with what they stand for; note, however, that what constitutes driving under the influence may also vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, so as always, you are advised to contact a DUI attorney in your state to discuss what laws may affect you.

DUI Acronyms

BAC: Blood Alcohol Content.

BAL: Blood Alcohol Level.

BUI: Boating Under the Influence; just as it sounds, this is operating any kind of boat, ship, or other water vessel while impaired. All states have such provisions, and the penalties are often similar to those for DUI.

DUBAL/ UBAL: Driving with an Unlawful Blood Alcohol Level/Unlawful Blood Alcohol Level; these terms are used to describe “DUI per se,” which exists in every state, i.e., you are guilty of driving under the influence if your blood alcohol level is above a certain allowed minimum even if you show no signs of impairment.

DUI: Driving Under the Influence; this is the most common term used.

DUII: Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants.

DWAI: Driving While Ability Impaired; an offense for driving under the influence at levels lower than that for DWI (below) with less severe penalties as well.

DWI: Driving While Impaired or Driving While Intoxicated; this is the second most common term used after DUI.

DWUI: Driving While Under the Influence.

FUI: Flying Under the Influence.

OMVI – Operating a Motor Vehicle while Impaired.

OUI: Operating Under the Influence.

OUID: Operating Under the Influence of Drugs.

OIUL: Operating Under the Influence of Liquor.

OVI: Operating a Vehicle while Impaired.

OVWI: Operating a Vessel While Intoxicated.

OWI: Operating While Intoxicated/Impaired.