Penalties for Refusing an Alcohol Test in New Jersey

As per New Jersey law, one should take a breathalyzer test if he or she is arrested for DWI. New Jersey’s “implied consent” law (Annotated 39:4-50.2) says that if one is lawfully arrested by an officer under the  belief that the individual has been driving while intoxicated, he or she should give their consent to take a chemical breath test for the purpose of determining blood alcohol content (BAC).  The test is taken at the time of the arrest.

Once an individual is arrested, the officer will request a breathalyzer test and should read the individual their rights, depending on whether he or she submits to a test, or the penalties should they refuse. The penalties for refusing to submit to a chemical test are found in the New Jersey Statutes Annotated 39.4-50.22.

Penalties for Refusing an Alcohol Test

• 1st offense – $300-$500 fine and a license suspension of no less than 7 months and no more than 1 year.
• 2nd offense – $500-$1,000 fine and a 2-year license suspension.
• 3rd offense – $1,000 fine and a 10-year license suspension.
• Installation of an ignition interlock device for a period of 6 months to 1 year after license restoration for the 1st offense, 1 year to 3 years for the 2nd and 3rd offenses respectively.
• Automobile insurance surcharge of $1,000 a year for 3 years for 1st and 2nd offenses and $1,500 for 3rd offense.
• A $100 surcharge to be deposited in the Drunk Driving Enforcement Fund Referral to an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center.

Additionally, if one refuses to take a chemical test after they have been arrested for DWI when driving on school grounds, through a school crossing, or even within 1,000 feet of a school, the penalties are doubled.

Are You Charged With DWI? Contact the Law Offices of Joel Silberman, LLC

DWI defense attorneys at the law office of Joel Silberman have been serving clients in New Jersey for more than a decade. We provide diligent criminal defense representation to clients who are facing DWI charges. Call us today at 201-420-1913.