Michigan OWI Costs (2026)
State-specific OWI cost calculators, law summaries, and guides for Michigan.
Calculate your Michigan OWI costOn our estimates, a typical first-offense OWI in Michigan costs about $17,914, the 23rd highest of the 50 states (median of our state estimates: $17,615). Use the calculators below for your own situation.
Michigan OWI Key Facts
Michigan OWI Calculators
Michigan OWI FAQ
How much does an OWI cost in Michigan?
Add up the fine ($100-$500), attorney fees (our estimate: $1,500-$7,500), insurance, ignition interlock, education, reinstatement and time off work, and our calculator puts a typical first-offense OWI in Michigan at about $17,914, within a range of $9,112 to $28,165, using its default answers. Use the calculator for an estimate based on your own situation.
What is the legal OWI term in Michigan?
Michigan uses the term "OWI" for impaired driving offenses. The legal BAC limit is 0.08% for adults, with enhanced penalties at 0.17% BAC, and a separate lesser charge applies at BAC below the standard limit.
How long is your license suspended for a first OWI in Michigan?
A first-offense OWI in Michigan carries a license suspension of 180 days, and a second offense carries a license suspension of 1 year (365 days). Whether you can keep driving on a restricted license during that time is covered below.
Is an ignition interlock device required in Michigan?
Our Michigan data shows no interlock requirement for a first-offense OWI. A second offense requires 12 months of IID.
Does Michigan require SR-22 insurance after an OWI?
Yes. Michigan requires SR-22 high-risk insurance filing for 3 years following an OWI conviction. We estimate the typical premium increase at 70-150%.
When does an OWI become a felony in Michigan?
In Michigan, an OWI becomes a felony on the third offense (lifetime lookback). Other factors, such as an injury, can also change how a case is charged; an attorney can tell you how they apply in Michigan.
Can an OWI be expunged in Michigan?
Michigan allows OWI expungement under certain conditions, typically after a waiting period of 5 years following completion of your sentence. Our estimate of the cost to petition: $50-$100.
How long do you have to request a license hearing after an OWI arrest in Michigan?
In Michigan, you have 14 days from the date of the suspension notice to request a hearing on your license if you refused the chemical test (MCL 257.625f(1)). The notice you received at arrest gives the exact date.
How long does Michigan have to charge you with an OWI?
In Michigan, the state generally must file OWI charges within 6 years of the alleged offense. This deadline reflects a first-offense misdemeanor OWI; felony cases can carry a different filing window. If you are charged, an attorney can confirm how the deadline applies to your case.
Can you get a hardship or restricted license after an OWI in Michigan?
Michigan generally offers a hardship or restricted license that can let you keep driving for work, school, or treatment during part of an OWI suspension. Eligibility and conditions depend on your offense level and the court, so confirm the current rules for your situation.
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