Louisiana · DWI · Checked October 2026
Refusing a Breath or Blood Test in Louisiana
Refusing a Breath or Blood Test in Louisiana: What Are the Rules?
What happens if you refuse a breath or blood test in Louisiana.
- Refusal penalty
- License suspended 1 year (2 years for a second refusal within 10 years); a person who has refused on two previous occasions, or after a crash with a death or serious bodily injury, may not refuse, and refusing then is a crime with a fine of $300 to $1,000 and 10 days to 6 months in jail
- License suspension for refusing
- 1 year (first); 2 years for a second or later refusal within 10 years
- Deadline to challenge
- 30 days
Refusal Penalties in Louisiana
license suspended 1 year (2 years for a second refusal within 10 years); a person who has refused on two previous occasions, or after a crash with a death or serious bodily injury, may not refuse, and refusing then is a crime with a fine of $300 to $1,000 and 10 days to 6 months in jailLa. R.S. 32:667(B)(2); La. R.S. 32:666(A)(1)
License Suspension for Refusing in Louisiana
1 year (first); 2 years for a second or later refusal within 10 yearsLa. R.S. 32:667(A)(1)-(2), (B)
Official source: license suspension for refusing (Louisiana)
More on DWI Law in Louisiana
See the full overview of DWI laws in Louisiana and read about implied consent laws in every state.
This page summarizes Louisiana law from official sources, checked October 2026. It isn't legal advice; a lawyer licensed in Louisiana can advise on your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens if You Refuse a Breath Test in Louisiana?
license suspended 1 year (2 years for a second refusal within 10 years); a person who has refused on two previous occasions, or after a crash with a death or serious bodily injury, may not refuse, and refusing then is a crime with a fine of $300 to $1,000 and 10 days to 6 months in jail
How Long Is the Suspension for Refusing?
1 year (first); 2 years for a second or later refusal within 10 years