What is an OVI in Ohio?
Quite simply, OVI is another word for drunk driving. OVI is more commonly called DUI (driving under the influence) throughout the United States and is formerly known as OMVI (operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated) in Ohio.
OVI is a criminal charge in Ohio with minimum penalties on a first offense of:
- 3 days in jail or a 72 hour driver intervention program
- $375 in fines plus court costs
- 6 month license suspension
- $475 license reinstatement fee
OVI penalties on a first offense can be up to 6 months in jail, $1,075 in fines plus costs, up to a 3 year license suspension, and yellow license plates for purposes of limited driving privileges. OVI penalties are progressively stiffer if prior convictions are involved.