What Are the 5 NC DWI Levels? Penalties & Legal Help in 2025

Every day in the United States, 29 people die in a vehicle crash involving alcohol-impaired drivers.

If you’re drunk and behind the wheel in North Carolina, get ready for the consequences. Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense.

There are five different NC DWI levels. Each one carries a different penalty based on the severity of the violation.

A violation is Level 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 or Aggravated Level 1. The charge can change based on aggravating or mitigating factors.

Keep reading to learn about each level and its punishment.

Level 5

Level 5 is the least severe punishment. Offenders face a $200 fine and at least 24 hours in jail. They'll also need to perform 24 hours of community service and a suspended sentence is possible.

The max sentence is 120 days in jail, a $200 fine, court costs, probation, and any conditions required by the judge.

A Level 5 DWI conviction suspends your license for a year. There’s a chance for limited driving privileges for work and school.

Level 4

A Level 4 DWI charge carries a jail sentence from 48 hours to 120 days with a fine up to $500 plus court costs.

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