MN DVS Alcohol and Drug Awareness Flashcards

What is the legal consequence for a third DWI offense in Minnesota within 10 years?

Answer: Felony DWI with potential prison time

A third DWI conviction in Minnesota within 10 years is charged as a felony, carrying potential prison time, heavy fines, and long-term license cancellation.

Under Minnesota's DWI laws, what is the 'lookback period' used to determine repeat offender status?

Answer: 10 years

Minnesota uses a 10-year lookback period, meaning DWI convictions within the prior 10 years are counted when determining if a new offense is a repeat violation.

What is the primary reason why 'drinking coffee' or 'cold showers' do not sober a person up faster in Minnesota or anywhere?

Answer: Only the liver can metabolize alcohol, and it does so at a fixed rate regardless of other actions

The liver metabolizes alcohol at approximately .015% BAC per hour regardless of coffee, water, food, or showers — only time reduces BAC.

In Minnesota, what is the minimum license revocation period for a first DWI offense?

Answer: 90 days

A first DWI offense in Minnesota results in a minimum 90-day license revocation, with possible early reinstatement under the ignition interlock program.

What is an 'Open Container' violation in Minnesota?

Answer: Having any open or previously opened alcohol container accessible in the passenger area of a vehicle

Minnesota prohibits having any open or previously opened alcohol container accessible in the passenger compartment — it must be sealed and stored in the trunk or locked compartment.

In Minnesota, what does a 'drug recognition evaluator' (DRE) officer do during a drugged driving investigation?

Answer: Conducts a structured 12-step evaluation to identify drug impairment and the category of drug involved

A DRE officer is specially trained to perform a 12-step evaluation including vital signs, eye tests, and divided attention tests to identify drug impairment when a breathalyzer shows low or no alcohol.