District of Columbia · DUI · Checked October 2026
Refusing a Breath or Blood Test in District of Columbia
Refusing a Breath or Blood Test in District of Columbia: What Are the Rules?
What happens if you refuse a breath or blood test in District of Columbia.
- Refusal penalty
- 12-month revocation of the privilege to drive in D.C. (or 12-month license denial if unlicensed); D.C. license holders must enroll in the interlock program for 1 to 3 years; the refusal is admissible in court; with a prior DUI or OWI conviction, refusal creates a rebuttable presumption that you were under the influence
- License suspension for refusing
- 12 months revocation; D.C. license holders must enroll in the interlock program for 1 year (first refusal), 2 years (one prior) or 3 years (two or more priors)
- Deadline to challenge
- 10 days
Refusal Penalties in District of Columbia
12-month revocation of the privilege to drive in D.C. (or 12-month license denial if unlicensed); D.C. license holders must enroll in the interlock program for 1 to 3 years; the refusal is admissible in court; with a prior DUI or OWI conviction, refusal creates a rebuttable presumption that you were under the influenceD.C. Code § 50-1905; § 50-2201.05a(b-3)
License Suspension for Refusing in District of Columbia
12 months revocation; D.C. license holders must enroll in the interlock program for 1 year (first refusal), 2 years (one prior) or 3 years (two or more priors)D.C. Code § 50-1906(a); § 50-1403.01(a); § 50-1905(a); § 50-2201.05a(b-3)
Official source: license suspension for refusing (District of Columbia)
More on DUI Law in District of Columbia
See the full overview of DUI laws in District of Columbia and read about implied consent laws in every state.
This page summarizes District of Columbia law from official sources, checked October 2026. It isn't legal advice; a lawyer licensed in District of Columbia can advise on your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens if You Refuse a Breath Test in District of Columbia?
12-month revocation of the privilege to drive in D.C. (or 12-month license denial if unlicensed); D.C. license holders must enroll in the interlock program for 1 to 3 years; the refusal is admissible in court; with a prior DUI or OWI conviction, refusal creates a rebuttable presumption that you were under the influence
How Long Is the Suspension for Refusing?
12 months revocation; D.C. license holders must enroll in the interlock program for 1 year (first refusal), 2 years (one prior) or 3 years (two or more priors)