In Wyoming, an individual is considered legally drunk if they have a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of 0.08%. It is worth noting that even if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is less than 0.08%, you may still be charged with DUI (driving under the influence) if alcohol or other drugs impair your driving ability.
If a commercial driver’s blood alcohol level is 0.04% or higher, they cannot operate a vehicle in Wyoming. Additionally, drivers under 21 with a BAC level of 0.02% or higher are considered legally intoxicated. In other states, a DUI charge, often known as a DUI, may come from breaking this state law.
One to two standard alcoholic beverages may result in a 0.08% or higher BAC. However, this amount can only be used as a general indication because BAC might vary depending on characteristics, including weight and gender.
This article aims to increase public awareness about drunk driving in Wyoming. This site does not endorse or promote impaired driving in any state or region.
According to NHTSA data, drivers with a BAC of 0.08% or higher were involved in 34% of Wyoming’s 127 fatal collisions in 2020. Wyoming has DUI statutes in place to limit the number of drunk driving incidents.
Driving while intoxicated is dangerous and should be avoided. You should not drive after consuming alcohol. Use Uber, a designated driver service, or a cab if you must travel after drinking.
Following the state’s drunk driving rules is crucial. If you really must drive, have your blood alcohol level checked before getting behind the wheel. Your BAC level can be determined with an alcohol breathalyzer.
We recommend checking Wyoming’s official website for more information about DUI driving limitations.
Legal Alcohol Limit When Driving in Wyoming
Alcohol intoxication symptoms may emerge as soon as you take your first drink. It can impede sound decision-making and cause people to do things they do not do when sober.
Within 30 minutes to 2 hours of intake, alcohol reaches your system. Your respiratory rate may begin to slow, making clear thinking difficult.
Slower reaction times, decreased reflexes, and changed distance and speed perceptions are all possible effects. These conditions can arise even if you do not appear or feel intoxicated.
Although the state’s legal BAC limit is 0.08%, remember that everyone’s reaction to alcohol is unique.
The following factors may have an impact on your blood alcohol concentration:
- gender,
- weight,
- stress levels,
- hunger,
- level of alcohol consumption, and
- medication intake.
Before driving, it is best to have your blood alcohol level checked. While some persons may appear normal after consuming alcohol, their driving ability may have already been compromised. Some people may feel shaky or even faint after a few drinks.
A BAC calculator and BAC chart can help you determine how much alcohol you can consume before driving. These tools, however, may not be helpful for everyone because everyone reacts differently to alcohol. Using a certified alcohol breathalyzer is the most accurate way to determine your BAC.
Punishments for Drinking and Driving in Wyoming
Blood alcohol levels of 0.010% to 0.029% are unlikely to cause significant impairment. Individuals with this BAC frequently appear sober. However, as BAC levels rise, signs of alcohol-related impairment become more visible.
If a person’s BAC level is 0.08% or greater, as determined by a chemical test, they are considered to be under the influence of intoxicating liquor.
DUI rules differ from one state to the next. Test your blood alcohol level before driving to avoid fines and penalties.
Wyoming DUI penalties are detailed below.
First DUI Offense in Wyoming
A first-time DUI offender in Wyoming may face the following penalties:
- Jail Time: Maximum of six (6) months in prison
- Fines: Up to $750
- License Suspension: 90 days of license revocation
Second DUI Offense in Wyoming
A second DUI offense within ten years may result in the following punishment:
- Jail Time: At least seven (7) days up to six (6) months imprisonment
- Fines: $200 to $750
- License Suspension: One-year suspension of license
Third DUI Offense in Wyoming
An individual who commits a third DUI offense may face the following sanctions:
- Jail Time: At least 30 days up to six months in jail
- Fines: $750 to $3,000
- License Suspension: Three years suspension of license
Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
DUI offenders with a BAC level of 0.15% and above in Wyoming are required to install ignition interlock devices in the following period:
- First offense: Six (6) months
- Second offense: One (1) year
- Third offense: Two (2) years
Substance Abuse Evaluation and Treatment
All DUI offenders in Wyoming must undergo a substance abuse assessment. Based on the findings, the court may mandate treatment or sobriety monitoring. Instead of (or in addition to) the IID requirement, the judge may order participation in the 24/7 sobriety program.
The judge may also impose inpatient treatment for third-time offenders, who will receive up to 15 days of jail credit upon completing the program.
When Can You Drink and Drive in Wyoming?
Several factors influence a person’s blood alcohol concentration. According to studies, gender has a significant impact on BAC levels. Men and women have different BAC thresholds.
Men have much higher levels of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) than women. The ADH enzymes control the metabolism of alcohol. As a result, men absorb alcohol more quickly than women.
The information presented below might help you determine how much alcohol you can drink before driving in Wyoming.
Although the following information is based on studies, keep in mind that everyone’s reaction to alcohol is unique. As a result, the estimated amount of alcohol shown here may not be appropriate for everyone.
How Many Bottles of Beers Can You Drink and Drive in Wyoming?
According to BAC charts, a lighter individual has a higher BAC level.
A 12-ounce (350 ml) beer can be consumed by a 160-pound male (72 kilos) with a BAC of 0.02%. On the other hand, a female of the same weight and drinking habits may have a BAC of 0.03%. This comparison depicts how a person’s gender affects alcohol metabolism.
Given the above example, limiting your beer consumption to one to two bottles is preferable if you need to drive later.
How Many Glasses of Wine Can You Consume and Drive in Wyoming?
The ABV of a standard 5-ounce (142-milliliter) glass of wine is 12%.
As shown in the sample above, a 160-pound male can have a BAC of 0.02% after ingesting one glass of wine.
A woman of equal weight who consumes the same quantity of alcohol may have a BAC of 0.03%.
These BAC levels can rise when stress, an empty stomach, and medication use are considered.
One to two glasses of wine should suffice if you must drive after drinking.
How Much Whiskey or Vodka Can You Drink and Drive in Wyoming?
Distilled alcohol, such as vodka and whiskey, has an ABV of 40%.
A 160-pound male can have a BAC of 0.02% after drinking one shot of vodka or whiskey.
A woman with the same body weight and degree of alcohol consumption could have a BAC of 0.03%.
As previously stated, BAC levels may rise if other conditions exist.
If you must drive after drinking, stick to one to two shots of whiskey or vodka.
Sticking to DUI Laws in Wyoming
Driving while intoxicated is incredibly dangerous. If you are intoxicated, you may lose control over yourself and your vehicle. Everyone on the road should be aware of the risks of drunk driving and take all possible precautions to avoid it.
Even if you only had a few bottles or glasses of alcohol, you should not be too confident in your BAC and driving ability. Instead of driving, it is best to seek alternative ways of transportation.
If you must drive after drinking, ensure your driving ability is not impaired. To determine your blood alcohol level, we recommend utilizing a certified alcohol breathalyzer.
Make it a habit to check Wyoming’s official website for the latest news about DUI restrictions.
