Because Alaska drinking and driving is so dangerous, you’ll find that Alaska DUI laws are fairly harsh. If you’re arrested and found guilty, you can expect the following penalties:

First Conviction (Class A Misdemeanor)

• Up to one year in jail

• Mandatory 72 hours of community service

• Minimum of $1500 in fines

• License suspended for at least 90 days

Second Conviction (Class A Misdemeanor)

• Up to one year in jail – 20 days mandatory (sometimes served under house arrest)

• Possible community service

• Minimum of $3000 in fines

• License suspended for at least one year

Third Conviction within 10 years (Class C Felony)

• Up to five years in jail – 120 days mandatory

• Minimum of $10,000 in fines

• Permanent suspension of your license, with possible reinstatement after 10 years

• Seizure of your car

Third Conviction not within Ten Years (Class A Misdemeanor)

• Up to one year in jail – minimum of 60 days, sometimes served under house arrest

• Minimum of $4000 in fines

• Possible community service

• License suspended for at least three years

For fourth, fifth, sixth, and subsequent offenses, you’ll face even harsher penalties, usually with very long minimum jail time and less of a possibility of serving that sentence through hour arrest. There are also harsh penalties for anyone under 21 who is caught drinking and driving in Alaska. If you’re under 21, you’ll be required to perform 20 to 80 hours of an alcohol-related community service.

In addition to the penalties listed above, whether it is your first or fifth conviction, you’ll have to participate in an alcohol evaluation and treatment program. This isn’t the same as the defensive driving classes, such as the one offered by DrivingUniversity.com, but you may also choose to take these classes to reduce the number of points on your license.

Your insurance rates will also go up, especially if you are involved in an accident while drinking and driving. You’ll be required to pay for all emergency vehicles that responded, and insurance rarely covers this cost.

Sometimes, you can also be required to use an ignition interlock device (IID). This kind of technology is required if you have a BAC of 0.16% or higher. You’ll have to use one for six to twelve months, depending on your BAC. An IID prevents you from starting the car if you have a BAC higher than 0.02% or higher.