Effective April 9, 2025, the laws surrounding Operating a Vehicle while Intoxicated (OVI) charges in Ohio will be changing, increasing penalties surrounding the offense. Here are some important items to note:
Law enforcement officers will be authorized to use oral fluid tests for a person arrested for OVI.
There will be an increase of minimum fines for those found guilty of OVI:
1. For a first offense, the minimum fine is $565.
2. For a second offense, the minimum fine is $715.
3. For a third offense, the minimum fine is $1,040.
There will be an increase in the administrative license suspension:
1. The suspension for a first offense can be waived, unless the individual refused to test at the scene.
2. The suspension for repeat offenders with a high test is 45 days with the use of an ignition interlock device.
3. The suspension for repeat offenders who refused to test at the scene is 90 days with the use of an ignition interlock device.
The license reinstatement fee has decreased to $315.
For more information, please visit: