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Drunken Driving

V.S.A. tit. 23, ch. 13, subch. 13
in effect

23 V.S.A. § 1200 Definitions

1200. Definitions As used in this subchapter: (1) “Alcohol concentration” means: (A) the number of grams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood; or (B) the number of grams of alcohol per 210 liters of breath. (2) “Drug” means: (A) a regulated drug as defined in 18 V.S.A. § 4201; or (B) any substance or combination of substances, other than alcohol, that affects the nervous system, brain, or muscles of a person so as to impair, noticeably and appreciably, a person’s ability to drive a vehicle safely. (3) “Evidentiary test” means a breath, saliva, or blood test that indicates the person’s alcohol concentration or the presence of other drug and that is intended to be introduced as evidence. (4) “Alcohol” includes alcohol, malt beverages, spirits, fortified wines, and vinous beverages, as defined in 7 V.S.A. § 2, and any beverage or liquid containing any of them. (5) “Law enforcement officer” means a law enforcement officer who has been certified by the Vermont Criminal Justice Council pursuant to 20 V.S.A. § 2358. (6) “Vehicle” means a motor vehicle as defined in section 4 of this title and, when on a public highway: (A) a snowmobile as defined in section 3201 of this title; and (B) an all-terrain vehicle as defined in section 3501 of this title. (7) “Highway” has the same meaning as in subdivision 4(13) of this title, except that for purposes of this subchapter, “highway” does not include the driveway that serves only a single-family or two-family residence of the operator. This exception shall not apply if a person causes the death of a person, causes bodily injury to a person, or causes damage to the personal property of another person, while operating a motor vehicle on a driveway in violation of section 1201 of this subchapter. (8) “Ignition interlock device” means a device that is capable of measuring a person’s alcohol concentration and that prevents a motor vehicle from being started by a person whose alcohol concentration is 0.02 or greater. (9)(A) “Ignition interlock restricted driver’s license” or “ignition interlock RDL” or “RDL” means a restricted license or privilege to operate a motor vehicle issued by the Commissioner allowing a resident whose license or privilege to operate has been suspended or revoked for operating under the influence of alcohol or in excess of legal limits of alcohol concentration, or for refusing an enforcement officer’s reasonable request for an evidentiary test, to operate a motor vehicle, other than a commercial motor vehicle as defined in section 4103 of this title, installed with an approved ignition interlock device. (B) “Ignition interlock certificate” means a restricted privilege to operate a motor vehicle issued by the Commissioner allowing a nonresident whose privilege to operate a motor vehicle in Vermont has been suspended or revoked for operating under the influence of alcohol or in excess of legal limits of alcohol concentration, or for refusing an enforcement officer’s reasonable request for an evidentiary test, to operate a motor vehicle, other than a commercial motor vehicle as defined in section 4103 of this title, installed with an approved ignition interlock device. (10) “Random retest” means a test of a vehicle operator’s blood alcohol concentration, other than a test required to start the vehicle, that is required at random intervals during operation of a vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock device. (11) “Serious bodily injury” has the same meaning as in 13 V.S.A. § 1021(a)(2)(A). (12) As used in this section, “conviction” has the same meaning as in subdivision 4(60) of this title. Added 1989, No. 68, § 1, eff. Dec. 1, 1989; amended, 1991, No. 55, § 1; 1997, No. 117 (Adj. Sess.), §§ 10, 11; 1997, No. 117 (Adj. Sess.), § 12, eff. April 29, 1998; 1999, No. 20, § 1; 2007, No. 170 (Adj. Sess.), § 1; 2009, No. 126 (Adj. Sess.), § 3, eff. July 1, 2011; 2011, No. 90 (Adj. Sess.), § 1; 2015, No. 158 (Adj. Sess.), § 45; 2017, No. 83, § 153; 2019, No. 164 (Adj. Sess.), § 21, eff. Jan. 1, 2022; 2025, No. 41, § 2, eff. July 1, 2025; 2025, No. 66, § 31, eff. July 1, 2025.

23 V.S.A. § 1201 Operating vehicle under the influence of alcohol or other substance; criminal refusal; enhanced penalty for BAC of 0.16 or more

1201. Operating vehicle under the influence of alcohol or other substance; criminal refusal; enhanced penalty for BAC of 0.16 or more (a) A person shall not operate, attempt to operate, or be in actual physical control of any vehicle on a highway: (1) when the person’s alcohol concentration is: (A) 0.08 or more; or (B) 0.02 or more if the person is operating a school bus as defined in subdivision 4(34) of this title; or (C) 0.04 or more if the person is operating a commercial vehicle as defined in subdivision 4103(4) of this title; or (2) when the person is under the influence of alcohol; or (3) when the person is under the influence of any other drug or under the combined influence of alcohol and any other drug. (b) A person who has previously been convicted of a violation of this section shall not operate, attempt to operate, or be in actual physical control of any vehicle on a highway and refuse a law enforcement officer’s reasonable request under the circumstances for an evidentiary test where the officer had reasonable grounds to believe the person was in violation of subsection (a) of this section. (c) A person shall not operate, attempt to operate, or be in actual physical control of any vehicle on a highway and be involved in a crash or collision resulting in serious bodily injury or death to another and refuse a law enforcement officer’s reasonable request under the circumstances for an evidentiary test where the officer has reasonable grounds to believe the person has any amount of alcohol or drugs in the person’s system. (d)(1) A person who is convicted of a second or subsequent violation of subsection (a), (b), or (c) of this section when the person’s alcohol concentration is proven to be 0.16 or more shall not, for three years from the date of the conviction for which the person’s alcohol concentration is 0.16 or more, operate, attempt to operate, or be in actual physical control of any vehicle on a highway when the person’s alcohol concentration is 0.02 or more. The prohibition imposed by this subsection shall be in addition to any other penalties imposed by law. (2) A person shall not operate, attempt to operate, or be in actual physical control of any vehicle on a highway when the person’s alcohol concentration is 0.02 or more if the person has previously been convicted of a second or subsequent violation of subsection (a), (b), or (c) of this section within the preceding three years and the person’s alcohol concentration for the second or subsequent violation was proven to be 0.16 or greater. A violation of this subsection shall be considered a third or subsequent violation of this section and shall be subject to the penalties of subsection 1210(d) of this title. (e) The fact that a person charged with a violation of this section is or has been entitled to use a drug under the laws of this State shall not constitute a defense against any charge of violating this section. (f) A person may not be convicted of more than one violation of subsection (a) or (j) of this section arising out of the same incident. (g) For purposes of this section and section 1205 of this title, the defendant may assert as an affirmative defense that the person was not operating, attempting to operate, or in actual physical control of the vehicle because the person: (1) had no intention of placing the vehicle in motion; and (2) had not placed the vehicle in motion while under the influence. (h) As used in subdivision (a)(3) of this section, “under the influence of a drug” means that a person’s ability to operate a motor vehicle safely is diminished or impaired in the slightest degree. This subsection shall not be construed to affect the meaning of the term “under the influence of alcohol.” (i) Evidence of the results of a standardized field sobriety test conducted by a law enforcement officer trained in Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement or a certified Drug Recognition Expert’s systematic evaluation of observable signs and symptoms of a person charged with a violation of this section shall be presumptively admissible at trial to demonstrate whether or not the person was operating under the influence in violation of this section. (j) A person suspected of violating this section shall submit to the collection of an evidentiary blood sample when a warrant for that person’s blood is issued pursuant to subdivision 1202(f)(1) of this title. This subsection shall not be construed as impairing a person’s right to challenge the validity of a search warrant in any subsequent legal proceedings. Added 1969, No. 267 (Adj. Sess.), § 1; amended 1973, No. 16, § 1, eff. March 1, 1973; 1973, No. 79, § 1, eff. May 23, 1973; 1975, No. 10, § 2, eff. April 9, 1975; 1981, No. 103, §§ 2, 2a; 1983, No. 212 (Adj. Sess.), § 5; 1989, No. 68, § 2, eff. Dec. 1, 1989; 1991, No. 55, § 2; 1997, No. 56, § 1, eff. Aug. 1, 1997; 1999, No. 116 (Adj. Sess.), § 2; 1999, No. 160 (Adj. Sess.), § 15; 2001, No. 146 (Adj. Sess.), § 1; 2005, No. 37, § 1; 2007, No. 195 (Adj. Sess.), § 4; 2011, No. 56, § 3; 2013, No. 169 (Adj. Sess.), § 1, eff. June 3, 2014; 2017, No. 83, § 161(4); 2019, No. 59, § 27; 2019, No. 164 (Adj. Sess.), § 22, eff. Jan. 1, 2022; 2025, No. 41, § 2, eff. July 1, 2025.

23 V.S.A. § 1201c Calculation of suspensions and revocations

1201c. Calculation of suspensions and revocations Notwithstanding any direction or order from any person or entity to the contrary, the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles shall calculate, in accordance with applicable statutes and rules, the duration of suspensions; whether and when revocations, suspensions, and reinstatements shall occur; and all other required actions and calculations. Added 1997, No. 117 (Adj. Sess.), § 13.

23 V.S.A. § 1202 Consent to taking of tests to determine blood alcohol content or presence of other drug

1202. Consent to taking of tests to determine blood alcohol content or presence of other drug (a)(1) Implied consent. Every person who operates, attempts to operate, or is in actual physical control of any vehicle on a highway in this State is deemed to have given consent to an evidentiary test of that person’s breath for the purpose of determining the person’s alcohol concentration or the presence of other drug in the blood. The test shall be administered at the direction of a law enforcement officer. (2) Blood test. If breath testing equipment is not reasonably available or if the officer has reason to believe that the person is unable to give a sufficient sample of breath for testing or if the law enforcement officer has reasonable grounds to believe that the person is under the influence of a drug other than alcohol, the person is deemed to have given consent to the taking of an evidentiary sample of blood. If in the officer’s opinion the person is incapable of decision or unconscious or dead, it is deemed that the person’s consent is given and a sample of blood shall be taken. A blood test sought pursuant to this subdivision shall be obtained pursuant to subsection (f) of this section. (3) Saliva test. If the law enforcement officer has reasonable grounds to believe that the person is under the influence of a drug other than alcohol, or under the combined influence of alcohol and a drug, the person is deemed to have given consent to providing of an evidentiary sample of saliva. A saliva test sought pursuant to this subdivision shall be obtained pursuant to subsection (f) of this section. Any saliva test administered under this section shall be used only for the limited purpose of detecting the presence of a drug in the person’s body and shall not be used to extract DNA information. (4) Evidentiary test. The evidentiary test shall be required of a person when a law enforcement officer has reasonable grounds to believe that the person was operating, attempting to operate, or in actual physical control of a vehicle in violation of section 1201 of this title. (5) Fatal collision or incident resulting in serious bodily injury. The evidentiary test shall also be required if the person is the surviving operator of a motor vehicle involved in a fatal incident or collision or an incident or collision resulting in serious bodily injury and the law enforcement officer has reasonable grounds to believe that the person has any amount of alcohol or other drug in the person’s system. (b) A refusal to take a breath test may be introduced as evidence in a criminal proceeding. (c) A person who is requested by a law enforcement officer to submit to an evidentiary test or tests has a right as limited in this subsection to consult an attorney before deciding whether or not to submit to such a test or tests. The person must decide whether or not to submit to the evidentiary test or tests within a reasonable time and not later than 30 minutes after the time of the initial attempt to contact the attorney. The person must make a decision about whether to submit to the test or tests at the expiration of the 30 minutes, regardless of whether a consultation took place. (d) At the time a test is requested, the person shall be informed of the following statutory information: (1) Vermont law authorizes a law enforcement officer to request a test to determine whether the person is under the influence of alcohol or other drug. (2) If the officer’s request is reasonable and testing is refused, the person’s license or privilege to operate will be suspended for at least six months. (3) If a test is taken and the results indicate that the person is under the influence of alcohol or other drug, the person will be subject to criminal charges and the person’s license or privilege to operate will be suspended for at least 90 days. (4) A person who is requested by a law enforcement officer to submit to an evidentiary test or tests has the limited right to consult an attorney before deciding whether or not to submit to such a test or tests. The person must decide whether or not to submit to the evidentiary test or tests within a reasonable time and not later than 30 minutes from the time of the initial attempt to contact the attorney, regardless of whether a consultation took place. The person also has the right to have additional tests made by someone of the person’s own choosing at the person’s own expense. The person shall also be informed of the location of one or more facilities available for drawing blood. (5) A person who is requested by a law enforcement officer to submit to an evidentiary test administered with an infrared breath-testing instrument may elect to have a second infrared test administered immediately after receiving the results of the first test. (6) If the person refuses to take an evidentiary test, the refusal may be offered into evidence against the person at trial, whether or not a search warrant is sought. The person may be charged with the crime of criminal refusal if the person: (A) has previously been convicted of a violation of section 1201 of this title; (B) is involved in a crash or collision resulting in serious bodily injury or death to another, in which case the court may issue a search warrant and order the person to submit to a blood test, the results of which may be offered into evidence against the person at trial; or (C) knowingly hinders the collection of an evidentiary blood sample when a warrant for that person’s blood is issued pursuant to subdivision (f)(1) of this section. (e) In any proceeding under this subchapter, a law enforcement officer’s testimony that the officer is certified pursuant to 20 V.S.A. § 2358 shall be prima facie evidence of that fact. (f)(1) If a blood test is sought from a person pursuant to subdivision (a)(2) of this section, or if a person who has been involved in a crash or collision resulting in serious bodily injury or death to another refuses an evidentiary test, a law enforcement officer may apply for a search warrant pursuant to Rule 41 of the Vermont Rules of Criminal Procedure to obtain a sample of blood for an evidentiary test. Pursuant to subdivision (d)(6) of this section, if a blood sample is obtained by search warrant, the fact of the refusal may still be introduced in evidence, in addition to the results of the evidentiary test. Once a law enforcement official begins the application process for a search warrant, the law enforcement official is not obligated to discontinue the process even if the person later agrees to provide an evidentiary sample. The limitation created by Rule 41(g) of the Vermont Rules of Criminal Procedure regarding blood specimens shall not apply to search warrants authorized by this section. (2) If an evidentiary saliva test is sought from a person pursuant to subdivision (a)(3) of this section, a law enforcement officer may apply for a search warrant pursuant to Rule 41 of the Vermont Rules of Criminal Procedure to obtain a sample of saliva for the evidentiary test. Pursuant to subdivision (d)(6) of this section, if a saliva sample is obtained by search warrant, the fact of the refusal may still be introduced in evidence, in addition to the results of the evidentiary test. (g) The Defender General shall provide statewide 24-hour coverage seven days a week to ensure that adequate legal services are available to persons entitled to consult an attorney under this section. Added 1969, No. 267 (Adj. Sess.), § 2; amended 1973, No. 79, § 2, eff. May 23, 1973; 1977, No. 96, eff. May 5, 1977; 1981, No. 103, § 3; 1985, No. 228 (Adj. Sess.), § 3; 1989, No. 68, § 3, eff. Dec. 1, 1989; 1991, No. 55, § 3; 1991, No. 57, § 2, eff. July 4, 1991; 1997, No. 56, §§ 2, 3, eff. Aug. 1, 1997; 1997, No. 117 (Adj. Sess.), § 14; 1999, No. 160 (Adj. Sess.), § 16; 2001, No. 146 (Adj. Sess.), § 2; 2017, No. 62, § 9; 2017, No. 132 (Adj. Sess.), § 14; 2019, No. 164 (Adj. Sess.), § 23; 2025, No. 41, § 2, eff. July 1, 2025; 2025, No. 91 (Adj. Sess.), § 123, eff. April 30, 2026.

23 V.S.A. § 1203 Administration of tests; retention of test and videotape

1203. Administration of tests; retention of test and videotape (a) A breath test shall be administered only by a person who has been certified by the Vermont Criminal Justice Council to operate the breath testing equipment being employed. In any proceeding under this subchapter, a person’s testimony that he or she is certified to operate the breath testing equipment employed shall be prima facie evidence of that fact. (b)(1) Only a physician, licensed nurse, medical technician, physician assistant, medical technologist, laboratory assistant, intermediate or advanced emergency medical technician, or paramedic acting at the request of a law enforcement officer may, at a medical facility, police or fire department, or other safe and clean location as determined by the individual withdrawing blood, withdraw blood for the purpose of determining the presence of alcohol or another drug. Any withdrawal of blood shall not be taken at roadside, and a law enforcement officer, even if trained to withdraw blood, acting in that official capacity may not withdraw blood for the purpose of determining the presence of alcohol or another drug. These limitations do not apply to the taking of a breath sample. A medical facility or business may not charge more than $75.00 for services rendered when an individual is brought to a facility for the sole purpose of an evidentiary blood sample or when an emergency medical technician or paramedic draws an evidentiary blood sample. (2) A saliva sample may be obtained by a person authorized by the Vermont Criminal Justice Council to collect a saliva sample for the purpose of evidentiary testing to determine the presence of a drug. Any saliva sample obtained pursuant to this section shall not be taken at roadside. (c) When blood or saliva is withdrawn at an officer’s request, a sufficient amount of saliva or blood, as the case may be, shall be taken to enable the person to have made an independent analysis of the sample and shall be held for at least 45 days from the date the sample was taken. At any time during that period, the person may direct that the sample be sent to an independent laboratory of the person’s choosing for an independent analysis. The Department of Public Safety shall adopt rules providing for the security of the sample. At no time shall the defendant or any agent of the defendant have access to the sample. A preserved sample of breath shall not be required when an infrared breath-testing instrument is used. A person tested with an infrared breath-testing instrument shall have the option of having a second infrared test administered immediately after receiving the results of the first test. (d) In the case of a breath, saliva, or blood test, the test shall be analyzed in compliance with rules adopted by the Department of Public Safety. The analyses shall be retained by the State. A sample is adequate if the infrared breath testing instrument analyzes the sample and does not indicate the sample is deficient. An analysis of the person’s saliva or blood that is available to that person for independent analysis shall be considered valid when performed according to methods approved by the Department of Public Safety. The analysis performed by the State shall be considered valid when performed according to a method or methods selected by the Department of Public Safety. The Department of Public Safety shall use rulemaking procedures to select its method or methods. Failure of a person to provide an adequate breath or saliva sample constitutes a refusal. (e) [Repealed.] (f) When a law enforcement officer has reason to believe that a person may be violating or has violated section 1201 of this title, the officer may request the person to provide a sample of breath for a preliminary screening test using a device approved by the Commissioner of Public Safety for this purpose. The person shall not have the right to consult an attorney prior to submitting to this preliminary breath alcohol screening. The results of this preliminary screening may be used for the purpose of deciding whether an arrest should be made and whether to request an evidentiary test and shall not be used in any court proceeding except on those issues. Following the screening, additional tests may be required of the operator pursuant to the provisions of section 1202 of this title. (g) The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner shall report in writing to the Department of Motor Vehicles the death of any individual as the result of a crash involving a vehicle and the circumstances of the crash within five days after such death. (h) A Vermont law enforcement officer shall have a right to request a breath, saliva, or blood sample in an adjoining state or country under this section unless prohibited by the law of the other state or country. If the law in an adjoining state or country does not prohibit an officer acting under this section from taking a breath, saliva, or blood sample in its jurisdiction, evidence of such sample shall not be excluded in the courts of this State solely on the basis that the test was taken outside the State. (i) The Commissioner of Public Safety shall adopt emergency rules relating to the operation, maintenance, and use of preliminary alcohol screening devices for use by law enforcement officers in enforcing the provisions of this title. The Commissioner shall consider relevant standards of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in adopting such rules. Any preliminary alcohol screening device authorized for use under this title shall be on the qualified products list of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (j) A videotape made of the alleged offense and subsequent processing may be erased or destroyed by the law enforcement agency no earlier than 90 days after final judgment or, if no civil or criminal action is filed, no earlier than 90 days after the date the videotape was made. (k) A copy of a videotape made of the alleged offense shall be provided to the defendant within ten days after the defendant requests the copy and pays a $45.00 fee for its reproduction. No fee shall be charged to a defendant whom the court has determined to be indigent. Added 1969, No. 267 (Adj. Sess.), § 3; amended 1971, No. 14, § 8, eff. March 11, 1971; 1971, No. 260 (Adj. Sess.), § 48; 1973, No. 79, § 3, eff. May 23, 1973; 1975, No. 103, § 1, eff. May 30, 1975; 1981, No. 103, § 4; 1989, No. 68, § 4, eff. Dec. 1, 1989; 1991, No. 55, § 4; 1991, No. 57, §§ 1, 4, eff. July 4, 1991; 1997, No. 57, § 2; 1999, No. 160 (Adj. Sess.), § 17, eff. May 29, 2000; 2007, No. 153 (Adj. Sess.), § 2; 2011, No. 56, § 14, eff. March 1, 2012; 2019, No. 59, § 28; 2019, No. 164 (Adj. Sess.), § 24, eff. Jan. 1, 2022; 2021, No. 65, § 10, eff. Jan. 1, 2022; 2023, No. 85 (Adj. Sess.), § 285, eff. July 1, 2024.

23 V.S.A. § 1203a Independent chemical test; blood tests

1203a. Independent chemical test; blood tests (a) A person tested has the right at the person’s own expense to have someone of the person’s own choosing administer a chemical test or tests in addition to any administered at the direction of the law enforcement officer under section 1203 of this title. The failure or inability to obtain an additional test or tests by a person shall not preclude the admission in evidence of the test taken at the direction of an enforcement officer unless the additional test was prevented or denied by the enforcement officer. (b) Arrangements for a blood test shall be made by the person submitting to the evidentiary breath or saliva test, by the person’s attorney, or by some other person acting on the person’s behalf unless the person is detained in custody after administration of the evidentiary test and upon completion of processing, in which case the law enforcement officer having custody of the person shall make arrangements for administration of the blood test upon demand but at the person’s own expense. (c) If after reasonable efforts the person is unable to arrange transportation necessary to obtain the blood test upon completion of processing, the law enforcement officer shall provide or arrange transportation to a facility available to administer the test unless, for good cause, the officer is unable to do so. This subsection shall only apply if the person was tested with an infrared testing device. (d) The physician, licensed nurse, medical technician, physician assistant, medical technologist, or laboratory assistant drawing a sample of blood shall use a sample collection kit provided by the Department of Public Safety or another type of collection kit. The sample shall be identified as to donor, date, and time; sealed; and mailed to the Department of Public Safety where it shall be held for a period of at least 45 days from the date the sample was taken. At any time during that period, the person may direct that the sample be sent to an independent laboratory of the person’s choosing for an independent analysis. The Department of Public Safety may recover its costs of supplies, handling, and storage. (e) The person requesting the sample is responsible for the costs of transportation, drawing the sample, and subsequent analysis. If the facility where the sample is drawn is unable to obtain payment from the person at the time the sample is drawn or within a reasonable time thereafter, the facility shall be entitled to reimbursement from the Office of the Defender General. The Office of the Defender General may recoup those costs and the court may impose conditions of release or probation for that purpose. (f) The facility, physician, licensed nurse, medical technician, physician assistant, medical technologist, or laboratory assistant drawing blood shall in no manner be liable in any civil or criminal action except for negligence in drawing the blood. Added 1991, No. 57, § 3, eff. July 4, 1991; amended 2011, No. 56, § 15, eff. March 1, 2012; 2013, No. 34, § 30a; 2019, No. 164 (Adj. Sess.), § 25, eff. Jan. 1, 2022; 2021, No. 20, § 241.

23 V.S.A. § 1203b Duty to report blood test results

1203b. Duty to report blood test results (a) Notwithstanding any law or court rule to the contrary, if a health care provider who is providing health services to a person in the emergency room of a health care facility as a result of a motor vehicle crash becomes aware as a result of any blood test performed in the health care facility that the person’s blood alcohol level meets or exceeds the level prohibited by law, the health care provider shall report that fact, as soon as is reasonably possible, to a law enforcement agency having jurisdiction over the location where the crash occurred. (b) Any person who in good faith reports the results of a blood test pursuant to the provisions of subsection (a) of this section shall be immune from any civil or criminal liability that might otherwise be incurred or imposed as a result of making a report. (c) Any person who violates subsection (a) of this section shall be assessed a civil penalty of not more than $500.00. (d) A report made under this section, the fact that a report was made, and the results of the blood test that required the report shall not be admissible in any criminal case without the consent of the person whose blood was tested. (e) A report made under the provisions of this section shall not be considered a waiver of the patient’s privilege. (f) As used in this section: (1) “Health care facility” shall be defined as provided in 18 V.S.A. § 9432(8). (2) “Health care provider” shall be defined as provided in 18 V.S.A. § 9432(9). (3) “Health services” shall be defined as provided in 18 V.S.A. § 9432(10). (g) Health care facilities have a responsibility to ensure that all health care providers who work in the health care facility and may provide health care to a person injured as a result of a motor vehicle crash are aware of their responsibilities under this section. Every health care facility that provides health care to persons injured as a result of motor vehicle crashes shall: (1) adopt a policy that implements this section; (2) provide a copy of the policy to all health care providers who work in the health care facility who may provide health care to a person as a result of a motor vehicle crash; and (3) conduct an educational and training program within one month of employment for all health care providers who work at the health care facility who may provide health care to an individual as a result of a motor vehicle crash. Added 1997, No. 117 (Adj. Sess.), § 15; amended 2019, No. 131 (Adj. Sess.), § 190; 2021, No. 76, § 3.

23 V.S.A. § 1204 Permissive inferences

1204. Permissive inferences (a) Upon the trial of any civil or criminal action or proceeding arising out of acts alleged to have been committed by a person while operating, attempting to operate, or in actual physical control of a vehicle on a highway, the person’s alcohol concentration shall give rise to the following permissive inferences: (1) If the person’s alcohol concentration at that time was less than 0.08, such fact shall not give rise to any presumption or permissive inference that the person was or was not under the influence of alcohol, but such fact may be considered with other competent evidence in determining whether the person was under the influence of alcohol. (2) If the person’s alcohol concentration at that time was 0.08 or more, it shall be a permissive inference that the person was under the influence of alcohol in violation of subdivision 1201(a)(2) or (3) of this title. (3) If the person’s alcohol concentration at any time within two hours of the alleged offense was 0.10 or more, it shall be a permissive inference that the person was under the influence of alcohol in violation of subdivision 1201(a)(2) or (3) of this title. (b) The foregoing provisions shall not be construed as limiting the introduction of any other competent evidence bearing upon the question whether the person was under the influence of alcohol or under the combined influence of alcohol and another drug nor shall they be construed as requiring that evidence of the amount of alcohol or drug in the person’s blood, breath, urine, or saliva must be presented. Added 1969, No. 267 (Adj. Sess.), § 4; amended 1973, No. 79, § 4, eff. May 23, 1973; 1981, No. 103, § 5; 1987, No. 244 (Adj. Sess.); 1991, No. 55, § 5; 2017, No. 83, § 161(4); 2019, No. 164 (Adj. Sess.), § 26, eff. Oct. 7, 2020.

23 V.S.A. § 1205 Civil suspension; summary procedure

1205. Civil suspension; summary procedure (a) Refusal; alcohol concentration at or above legal limits; suspension periods. (1) Upon affidavit of a law enforcement officer that the officer had reasonable grounds to believe that the person was operating, attempting to operate, or in actual physical control of a vehicle in violation of section 1201 of this title and that the person refused to submit to a test, the Commissioner shall suspend the person’s operating license or nonresident operating privilege or the privilege of an unlicensed operator to operate a vehicle for a period of six months and until the person complies with section 1209a of this title. However, during the suspension, an eligible person may operate under the terms of an ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate issued pursuant to section 1213 of this title. (2) Upon affidavit of a law enforcement officer that the officer had reasonable grounds to believe that the person was operating, attempting to operate, or in actual physical control of a vehicle in violation of section 1201 of this title and that the person submitted to a test and the test results indicated that the person’s alcohol concentration was at or above a limit specified in subsection 1201(a) of this title, at the time of operating, attempting to operate, or being in actual physical control, the Commissioner shall suspend the person’s operating license or nonresident operating privilege or the privilege of an unlicensed operator to operate a vehicle for a period of 90 days and until the person complies with section 1209a of this title. However, during the suspension, an eligible person may operate under the terms of an ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate issued pursuant to section 1213 of this title. (3) Upon affidavit of a law enforcement officer that the officer had reasonable grounds to believe that the person was operating, attempting to operate, or in actual physical control of a vehicle in violation of subdivision 1201(d)(2) of this title and that the person submitted to a test and the test results indicated that the person’s alcohol concentration was 0.02 or more at the time of operating, attempting to operate, or being in actual physical control, the Commissioner shall suspend the person’s operating license or nonresident operating privilege or the privilege of an unlicensed operator to operate a vehicle for life. However, during the suspension, an eligible person may operate under the terms of an ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate issued under section 1213 of this title. (b) Form of officer’s affidavit. A law enforcement officer’s affidavit in support of a suspension under this section shall be in a standardized form for use throughout the State and shall be sufficient if it contains the following statements: (1) The officer is a certified law enforcement officer. (2) The officer who administered the test was certified to operate the testing equipment. (3) The officer had reasonable grounds to believe the person was operating, attempting to operate, or in actual physical control of a vehicle in violation of section 1201 of this title (noting the time and date of operating, attempting to operate, or being in actual physical control). (4) The officer informed the person of the person’s rights under subsection 1202(d) of this title. (5) The officer obtained an evidentiary test (noting the time and date the test was taken) and the test indicated that the person’s alcohol concentration was at or above a legal limit specified in subsection 1201(a) or (d) of this title, or the person refused to submit to an evidentiary test. (6) The officer complied with the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, codified at 50 U.S.C. chapter 50. (7) The officer confirmed the person’s correct mailing address. (c) Notice of suspension. On behalf of the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles, a law enforcement officer requesting or directing the administration of an evidentiary test shall serve notice of intention to suspend and of suspension on a person who refuses to submit to an evidentiary test or on a person who submits to a test the results of which indicate that the person’s alcohol concentration was at or above a legal limit specified in subsection 1201(a) or (d) of this title, at the time of operating, attempting to operate, or being in actual physical control of a vehicle in violation of section 1201 of this title. The notice shall be signed by the law enforcement officer requesting the test. A copy of the notice shall be sent to the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles, and a copy shall be mailed or given to the defendant within three business days after the date the officer receives the results of the test. If mailed, the notice is deemed received three days after mailing to the address provided by the defendant to the law enforcement officer. A copy of the affidavit of the law enforcement officer shall also be mailed by first-class mail or given to the defendant and the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles within seven days after the date of notice. (d) Form of notice. The notice of intention to suspend and of suspension shall be in a form prescribed by the Supreme Court. The notice shall include an explanation of rights, a form to be used to request a hearing, and, if a hearing is requested, the date, time, and location of the Criminal Division of the Superior Court where the person must appear for a preliminary hearing. The notice shall also contain, in boldface print, the following: (1) You have the right to ask for a hearing to contest the suspension of your operator’s license. (2) If this is your first violation of section 1201 of this title and if you do not request a hearing, your license will be suspended as provided in this notice. If this is your second or subsequent violation of section 1201 of this title, your license will be suspended on the 11th day after you receive this notice. It is a crime to drive while your license is suspended unless you have been issued an ignition interlock restricted driver’s license or ignition interlock certificate. (3) If you wish to request a hearing before the Criminal Division of the Superior Court, you must mail or deliver your request for a hearing within seven days after (date of notice). (4) If your request for a hearing is not mailed or delivered within seven days after (date of notice), you waive your right to a hearing and your license will be suspended as provided in this notice. (5) In order to request a hearing, sign the attached form and mail or deliver the form to the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles at the address shown. (6) If you are charged with a second or subsequent violation of section 1201 of this title, no person shall sell, transfer, or encumber the title to a vehicle that may be subject to immobilization or forfeiture, unless approved by the court in which the charge is filed for good cause shown. (e) Effective date of suspension. (1) First offense. Unless a hearing is requested, a suspension under this section of the license of a person who the officer has reasonable grounds to believe violated section 1201 of this title a first time becomes effective on the 11th day after the person receives notice or is deemed to have received notice under subsection (c) of this section. If a hearing is requested, a suspension shall not become effective unless the court orders a suspension after hearing as provided in this section. (2) Second or subsequent offense. A suspension of a person’s license under this section shall become effective on the 11th day after the person receives notice or is deemed to have received notice under subsection (c) of this section if: (A) the officer has reasonable grounds to believe the person has violated section 1201 of this title; and (B) within the last 20 years, the person has: (i) had his or her operator’s license suspended pursuant to this section; or (ii) been convicted of a violation of section 1201 of this title. (f) Review by Superior Court. Within seven days following receipt of a notice of intention to suspend and of suspension, a person may make a request for a hearing before the Superior Court by mailing or delivering the form provided with the notice. The request shall be mailed or delivered to the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles, who shall then notify the Criminal Division of the Superior Court that a hearing has been requested and provide the Criminal Division and the State’s Attorney with a copy of the notice of intention to suspend and of suspension and the officer’s affidavit. (g) Preliminary hearing. The preliminary hearing shall be held within 21 days after the alleged offense. Unless impracticable or continued for good cause shown, the date of the preliminary hearing shall be the same as the date of the first appearance in any criminal case resulting from the same incident for which the person received a citation to appear in court. The preliminary hearing shall be held in accordance with procedures prescribed by the Supreme Court. (h) Final hearing. (1) If the defendant requests a hearing on the merits, the court shall schedule a final hearing on the merits to be held within 21 days after the date of the preliminary hearing. In no event may a final hearing occur more than 42 days after the date of the alleged offense without the consent of the defendant or for good cause shown. The final hearing may only be continued by the consent of the defendant or for good cause shown. The issues at the final hearing shall be limited to the following: (A) Whether the law enforcement officer had reasonable grounds to believe the person was operating, attempting to operate, or in actual physical control of a vehicle in violation of section 1201 of this title. (B) Whether at the time of the request for the evidentiary test the officer informed the person of the person’s rights and the consequences of taking and refusing the test substantially as set out in subsection 1202(d) of this title. (C) Whether the person refused to permit the test. (D) Whether the test was taken and the test results indicated that the person’s alcohol concentration was at or above a legal limit specified in subsection 1201(a) or (d) of this title, at the time of operating, attempting to operate, or being in actual physical control of a vehicle in violation of section 1201 of this title, whether the testing methods used were valid and reliable, and whether the test results were accurate and accurately evaluated. Evidence that the test was taken and evaluated in compliance with rules adopted by the Department of Public Safety shall be prima facie evidence that the testing methods used were valid and reliable and that the test results are accurate and were accurately evaluated. (E) Whether the requirements of section 1202 of this title were complied with. (2) No less than seven days before the final hearing, and subject to the requirements of Vermont Rule of Civil Procedure 11, the defendant shall provide to the State and file with the court a list of the issues (limited to the issues set forth in this subsection) that the defendant intends to raise. Only evidence that is relevant to an issue listed by the defendant may be raised by the defendant at the final hearing. The defendant shall not be permitted to raise any other evidence at the final hearing, and all other evidence shall be inadmissible. (i) Finding by the court. The court shall electronically forward a report of the hearing to the Commissioner. Upon a finding by the court that the law enforcement officer had reasonable grounds to believe that the person was operating, attempting to operate, or in actual physical control of a vehicle in violation of section 1201 of this title and that the person refused to submit to a test, or upon a finding by the court that the law enforcement officer had reasonable grounds to believe that the person was operating, attempting to operate, or in actual physical control of a vehicle in violation of section 1201 of this title and that the person submitted to a test and the test results indicated that the person’s alcohol concentration was at or above a legal limit specified in subsection 1201(a) or (d) of this title, at the time the person was operating, attempting to operate, or in actual physical control, the person’s operating license, or nonresident operating privilege, or the privilege of an unlicensed operator to operate a vehicle shall be suspended or shall remain suspended for the required term and until the person complies with section 1209a of this title. Upon a finding in favor of the person, the Commissioner shall cause the suspension to be canceled and removed from the record, without payment of any fee. (j) Venue and conduct of hearings. Venue for proceedings under this section shall be in the territorial unit of the Superior Court where the offense is alleged to have occurred. Hearings under this section shall be summary proceedings conducted by the Criminal Division of the Superior Court without a jury and shall be subject to the Vermont Rules of Civil Procedure only as consistent with this section. The State has the burden of proof by a preponderance of the evidence. Affidavits of law enforcement officers, chemists of either party, or expert witnesses of either party shall be admissible evidence, which may be rebutted by witnesses called by either party. The affidavits shall be delivered to the other party at least five days prior to the hearing. (k) Appeal. A decision of the Criminal Division of the Superior Court under this section may be appealed as a matter of right to the Supreme Court. The suspension shall not be stayed pending appeal unless the defendant is reasonably likely to prevail on appeal. (l) Access to information. In connection with a proceeding under this section, the operator shall have access to all written statements and information in the possession and control of the State concerning the evidentiary test or tests, including the police report, processing forms, certification and affidavit, breath test results, police notes, and the names and addresses of witnesses. If the operator intends to rely on the independent analysis, the State shall have access to the test results from the independent analysis and names and addresses of all witnesses. No depositions or written interrogatories shall be permitted except in extraordinary circumstances. (m) Second and subsequent suspensions. For a second suspension under this subchapter, the period of suspension shall be 18 months and until the person complies with section 1209a of this title. However, during the suspension, an eligible person may operate under the terms of an ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate issued pursuant to section 1213 of this title. For a third or subsequent suspension under this subchapter, the period of suspension shall be life. However, during this lifetime suspension, an eligible person may operate under the terms of an ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate issued under section 1213 of this title. (n) Presumption. In a proceeding under this section, if at any time within two hours of operating, attempting to operate, or being in actual physical control of a vehicle a person had an alcohol concentration at or above a legal limit specified in subsection 1201(a) or (d) of this title, it shall be a rebuttable presumption that the person’s alcohol concentration was at or above the applicable limit at the time of operating, attempting to operate, or being in actual physical control. (o) Use immunity. No testimony or other information presented by the defendant in connection with a proceeding under this section or any information directly or indirectly derived from such testimony or other information may be used for any purpose, including impeachment and cross-examination, against the defendant in any criminal case, except a prosecution for perjury or giving a false statement. (p) Suspensions to run concurrently. Suspensions imposed under this section or any comparable statute of any other jurisdiction and sections 1206, 1208, and 1216 of this title or any comparable statutes of any other jurisdiction, or any suspension resulting from a conviction for a violation of section 1091 of this title from the same incident, shall run concurrently and a person shall receive credit for any elapsed period of a suspension served in Vermont against a later suspension imposed in this State. (q) Rules. The Supreme Court shall adopt rules ensuring the fairness of proceedings under this section. (r) Surcharge; Public Defender Special Fund; DUI Enforcement Special Fund. A person suspended under this section for a refusal shall be assessed a surcharge of $50.00 that shall be collected by the Department of Motor Vehicles prior to reinstatement of the person’s driving privileges. The Department shall transfer the surcharge assessed under this subsection to the Public Defender Special Fund created in 13 V.S.A. § 5239 specifying the source of the monies being deposited. All such monies shall be used by the Office of the Defender General to cover the cost of providing statewide 24-hour legal services coverage as required by subsection 1202(g) of this title. After $40,000.00 has been deposited in the Public Defender Special Fund in a single fiscal year, all additional collected surcharges assessed under this subsection in that fiscal year shall be credited to the Governor’s Highway Safety Commission for deposit in a DUI Enforcement Special Fund established and managed pursuant to 32 V.S.A. chapter 7, subchapter 5. All such DUI Enforcement Special Fund receipts shall be used exclusively for statewide DUI enforcement and for no other purpose. (s) [Repealed.] (t) Nonmandatory time limits. For a first offense, the time limits set forth in subsections (g) and (h) of this section are directive only and shall not be interpreted by the court to be mandatory or jurisdictional. (u) Testimony by telephone. In any proceeding under this section, for cause shown, a party’s chemist may be allowed to testify by telephone in lieu of a personal appearance. Added 1969, No. 267 (Adj. Sess.), § 5; amended 1971, No. 14, § 9, eff. March 11, 1971; 1973, No. 79, § 5, eff. May 23, 1973; 1975, No. 103, § 2, eff. May 30, 1975; 1979, No. 58, § 1; 1981, No. 103, § 6; 1983, No. 134 (Adj. Sess.), § 4; 1989, No. 68, § 5, eff. Dec. 1, 1989; 1991, No. 55, § 6; 1995, No. 77 (Adj. Sess.), § 8, eff. March 21, 1996; 1995, No. 112 (Adj. Sess.), § 12, eff. April 22, 1996; 1997, No. 56, §§ 4, 7, eff. Aug. 1, 1997; 1997, No. 117 (Adj. Sess.), § 16; 1999, No. 160 (Adj. Sess.), § 18, eff. May 29, 2000; 2001, No. 146 (Adj. Sess.), § 3; 2009, No. 126 (Adj. Sess.), § 4, eff. July 1, 2011; 2009, No. 154 (Adj. Sess.), § 160; 2011, No. 46, § 8, eff. July 2, 2011; 2011, No. 56, §§ 4, 16, eff. March 1, 2012; 2011, No. 90 (Adj. Sess.), § 7; 2013, No. 57, § 19; 2015, No. 158 (Adj. Sess.), § 49; 2019, No. 32, § 8; 2019, No. 131 (Adj. Sess.), § 191; 2023, No. 85 (Adj. Sess.), § 286, eff. July 1, 2024; 2025, No. 41, § 2, eff. July 1, 2025; 2025, No. 66, §§ 32, 33, eff. July 1, 2025.

23 V.S.A. § 1206 Suspension of license for driving while under influence; first conviction

1206. Suspension of license for driving while under influence; first conviction (a) First conviction—generally. Except as otherwise provided, upon conviction of an individual for violating a provision of section 1201 of this subchapter, or upon final determination of an appeal, the court shall immediately forward the conviction report to the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles. The Commissioner shall immediately suspend the operator’s operating license or nonresident operating privilege or the privilege of an unlicensed operator to operate a vehicle, as applicable, for a period of 90 days and until the operator complies with section 1209a of this title. (b) Extended suspension—fatality or serious bodily injury. In cases resulting in a fatality or serious bodily injury to a person other than the defendant, the period of suspension shall be one year and until the defendant complies with section 1209a of this title. (c) Operation during suspension. During a suspension under this section, an eligible person may operate a motor vehicle under the terms of an ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate issued under section 1213 of this title. Added 1969, No. 267 (Adj. Sess.), § 6; amended 1973, No. 79, § 6, eff. May 23, 1973; 1975, No. 103, § 3, eff. May 30, 1975; 1979, No. 58, § 2; 1981, No. 103, § 7; 1983, No. 134 (Adj. Sess.), § 5; 1999, No. 160 (Adj. Sess.), § 19; 2009, No. 126 (Adj. Sess.), § 5, eff. July 1, 2011; 2011, No. 90 (Adj. Sess.), § 3; 2015, No. 158 (Adj. Sess.), § 50; 2019, No. 131 (Adj. Sess.), § 192; 2023, No. 85 (Adj. Sess.), § 287, eff. July 1, 2024.

23 V.S.A. § 1208 Suspensions for subsequent convictions

1208. Suspensions for subsequent convictions (a) Second conviction. Upon a second conviction of an individual violating a provision of section 1201 of this title and upon final determination of an appeal, the court shall immediately forward the conviction report to the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles. The Commissioner shall immediately suspend the operator’s operating license or nonresident operating privilege or the privilege of an unlicensed operator to operate a vehicle, as applicable, for 18 months and until the operator complies with section 1209a of this title. However, during the suspension, an eligible operator may operate under the terms of an ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate issued pursuant to section 1213 of this title. (b) Third conviction. Upon a third or subsequent conviction of an individual violating a provision of section 1201 of this title and upon final determination of any appeal, the court shall immediately forward the conviction report to the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles. The Commissioner shall immediately revoke the operator’s operating license or nonresident operating privilege or the privilege of an unlicensed operator to operate a motor vehicle, as applicable, for life. However, during this lifetime revocation, an eligible operator may operate under the terms of an ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate issued under section 1213 of this title. Added 1969, No. 267 (Adj. Sess.), § 8; amended 1973, No. 79, § 7, eff. May 23, 1973; 1975, No. 103, §§ 4, 5, eff. May 30, 1975; 1977, No. 101, § 2, eff. May 6, 1977; 1979, No. 58, § 3; 1981, No. 103, § 8; 1983, No. 134 (Adj. Sess.), § 6; 1989, No. 179 (Adj. Sess.), § 4, eff. May 14, 1990; 1991, No. 55, § 7; 1997, No. 56, § 5, eff. Aug. 1, 1997; 2009, No. 126 (Adj. Sess.), § 6, eff. July 1, 2011; 2011, No. 90 (Adj. Sess.), § 4; 2015, No. 158 (Adj. Sess.), § 51; 2023, No. 85 (Adj. Sess.), § 288, eff. July 1, 2024.

23 V.S.A. § 1209a Conditions of reinstatement; alcohol and driving education; screening; therapy programs

1209a. Conditions of reinstatement; alcohol and driving education; screening; therapy programs (a) Conditions of reinstatement. No license or privilege to operate suspended or revoked under this subchapter shall be reinstated except as follows: (1) In the case of a first suspension, a license or privilege to operate shall be reinstated only: (A) after the individual has successfully completed the Alcohol and Driving Education Program, at the individual’s own expense, followed by an assessment of the need for further treatment by a State-designated counselor, at the individual’s own expense, to determine whether reinstatement should be further conditioned on satisfactory completion of a therapy program agreed to by the individual and the Drinking Driver Rehabilitation Program Director; (B) if the screening indicates that therapy is needed, after the individual has satisfactorily completed or shown substantial progress in completing a therapy program at the individual’s own expense agreed to by the individual and the Driver Rehabilitation Program Director; (C) if the individual elects to operate under an ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate, after the individual operates under the RDL or certificate for the applicable period set forth in subsection 1205(a) or section 1206 of this title, plus any extension of this period arising from a violation of section 1213 of this title; and (D) if the individual has no pending criminal charges, civil citations, or unpaid fines or penalties for a violation under this chapter. (2) In the case of a second suspension, a license or privilege to operate shall not be reinstated until: (A) the individual has successfully completed an alcohol and driving rehabilitation program; (B) the individual has completed or shown substantial progress in completing a therapy program at the individual’s own expense agreed to by the individual and the Driver Rehabilitation Program Director; (C) after the individual operates under an ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate for 18 months or, in the case of someone subject to the one-year hard suspension prescribed in subdivision 1213(a)(1)(C) of this title, for one year, plus any extension of the relevant period arising from a violation of section 1213 of this title, except if otherwise provided in subdivision (4) of this subsection (a); and (D) the individual has no pending criminal charges, civil citations, or unpaid fines or penalties for a violation under this chapter. (3) In the case of a third or subsequent suspension or a revocation, a license or privilege to operate shall not be reinstated until: (A) the individual has successfully completed an alcohol and driving rehabilitation program; (B) the individual has completed or shown substantial progress in completing a therapy program at the individual’s own expense agreed to by the individual and the Driver Rehabilitation Program Director; (C) the individual has satisfied the requirements of subsection (b) of this section; and (D) the individual has no pending criminal charges, civil citations, or unpaid fines or penalties for a violation under this chapter. (4) The Commissioner shall waive a requirement under subdivision (2) of this subsection or subsection (b) of this section that an individual operate under an ignition interlock RDL or certificate prior to eligibility for reinstatement if: (A) the individual furnishes sufficient proof as prescribed by the Commissioner that the individual is incapable of using an ignition interlock device because of a medical condition that will persist permanently or at least for the term of the suspension or, in the case of suspensions or revocations for life, for a period of at least three years; or (B) the underlying offenses arose solely from being under the influence of a drug other than alcohol. (b) Total Abstinence Program. (1) As used in this subsection: (A) “Drug” means: (i) a regulated drug, as defined in 18 V.S.A. § 4201, that is used in any way other than as prescribed for a legitimate medical use in conformity with instructions from the prescriber; or (ii) any substance or combination of substances, other than alcohol or a regulated drug, that potentially affects the nervous system, brain, or muscles of an individual so as to impair an individual’s ability to drive a vehicle safely to the slightest degree. (B) “Total abstinence” means refraining from consuming any amount of alcohol or drugs at any time, regardless of whether the alcohol or drugs are consumed by an individual when attempting to operate, operating, or in actual physical control of a vehicle. (2)(A) Notwithstanding any other provision of this subchapter, an individual whose license or privilege to operate has been suspended or revoked for life under this subchapter may apply to the Commissioner for reinstatement of the individual’s driving privilege if the individual satisfies the requirements set forth in subdivision (3) of this subsection (b). (B) The beginning date for the period of total abstinence shall be not earlier than the effective date of the suspension or revocation from which the individual is requesting reinstatement and shall not include any period during which the individual is serving a sentence of incarceration to include furlough. The application shall include the applicant’s authorization for a urinalysis examination, or another examination if it is approved as a preliminary screening test under this subchapter, to be conducted prior to reinstatement under this subdivision (2). The application to the Commissioner shall be accompanied by a fee of $500.00. The Commissioner shall have the discretion to waive the application fee if the Commissioner determines that payment of the fee would present a hardship to the applicant. (3) If the Commissioner or a medical review board convened by the Commissioner is satisfied by a preponderance of the evidence that the applicant has maintained total abstinence for the three years immediately preceding the application, has successfully completed a therapy program as required under this section, and has operated under a valid ignition interlock RDL or under an ignition interlock certificate for at least three years following the suspension or revocation, and the applicant provides a written acknowledgment that the applicant must maintain total abstinence at all times while participating in the Total Abstinence Program, the applicant’s license or privilege to operate shall be reinstated immediately, subject to the condition that the applicant’s suspension or revocation will be put back in effect in the event any further investigation reveals a failure to maintain total abstinence and to any additional conditions as the Commissioner may impose to advance the public interest in public safety. The requirement to operate under an ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate shall not apply if the applicant is exempt under subdivision (a)(4) of this section. (4) If after notice and an opportunity for a hearing the Commissioner later finds that the individual was violating the conditions of the individual’s reinstatement under this subsection, the individual’s operating license or privilege to operate shall be immediately suspended or revoked for life. (5) If the Commissioner finds that an individual reinstated under this subsection is suspended pursuant to section 1205 of this title or is convicted of a violation of section 1201 of this title subsequent to reinstatement under this subsection, the individual shall be conclusively presumed to be in violation of the conditions of the reinstatement. (6) An individual shall be eligible for reinstatement under this subsection only once following a suspension or revocation for life. (7)(A) If an applicant for reinstatement under this subsection (b) resides in a jurisdiction other than Vermont, the Commissioner may elect not to conduct an investigation. If the Commissioner elects not to conduct an investigation, the Commissioner shall provide a letter to the applicant’s jurisdiction of residence stating that Vermont does not object to the jurisdiction issuing the applicant a license if the applicant is required to operate only vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device for at least a three-year period, unless exempt under subdivision (a)(4) of this section, and is required to complete any alcohol rehabilitation or treatment requirements of the licensing jurisdiction. (B) If the applicant’s jurisdiction of residence is prepared to issue or has issued a license in accordance with subdivision (A) of this subdivision (7) and the applicant satisfies the requirements of section 675 of this title, the Commissioner shall update relevant State and federal databases to reflect that the applicant’s lifetime suspension or revocation in Vermont under this subchapter has terminated. (c) Screening and therapy programs. In the case of a second or subsequent suspension, the Commissioner shall notify the individual of the requirement to enroll in the alcohol and driving education screening and therapy program provided for in this section within 30 days after license suspension. If the individual fails to enroll or fails to remain so enrolled until completion, the Drinking Driver Rehabilitation Program shall report such failure to the sentencing court. The court may order the individual to appear and show cause why the individual failed to comply. (d) Judicial review. An individual aggrieved by a decision of a designated counselor under this section may seek review of that decision pursuant to Rule 75 of the Vermont Rules of Civil Procedure. (e) Therapy program. A therapy program required under this section may include outpatient therapy, intensive outpatient therapy, and residential therapy. In the event that the individual and the Driver Rehabilitation Program Director cannot agree on the type of therapy required, the Criminal Division of the Superior Court shall make that determination. (f) Fees. The Department of Health’s Drinking Driver Rehabilitation Program shall assess fees for the Alcohol and Driving Education Program and the alcohol assessment screening required by subdivision (a)(1)(A) of this section. The fee for the Alcohol and Driving Education Program shall not exceed $250.00. The fee for the alcohol assessment screening shall not exceed $200.00. In the case of a more intensive or weekend residential program combining both the Alcohol and Driving Education Program and the alcohol assessment screening, the total charge shall not exceed $625.00. Charges collected under this section shall be credited to separate special funds for each type of service and shall be available to the Department of Health to offset the cost of operating the Drinking Driver Rehabilitation Program. Added 1981, No. 103, § 9; amended 1983, No. 134 (Adj. Sess.), § 7; 1985, No. 202 (Adj. Sess.), § 1; 1989, No. 68, § 6; 1989, No. 179 (Adj. Sess.), § 3, eff. May 14, 1990; 1991, No. 55, § 8; 1997, No. 55, § 7, eff. June 26, 1997; 1997, No. 56, § 8, eff. Aug. 1, 1997; 1997, No. 117 (Adj. Sess.), § 17; 1997, No. 155 (Adj. Sess.), § 63; 1999, No. 160 (Adj. Sess.), § 20; 2003, No. 109 (Adj. Sess.), § 7; 2007, No. 76, § 16; 2009, No. 23, § 1; 2009, No. 126 (Adj. Sess.), § 7, eff. July 1, 2011; 2009, No. 154 (Adj. Sess.), § 238; 2011, No. 90 (Adj. Sess.), § 5; 2013, No. 189 (Adj. Sess.), § 17; 2015, No. 50, § 16; 2015, No. 158 (Adj. Sess.), § 46; 2017, No. 71, § 14, eff. June 8, 2017; 2017, No. 206 (Adj. Sess.), § 8; 2023, No. 41, § 19, eff. June 1, 2023; 2025, No. 45, § 3, eff. July 1, 2025.

23 V.S.A. § 1210 Penalties

1210. Penalties (a) Screening. Before sentencing a defendant under this section, the court may order that the defendant submit to an alcohol assessment screening. Such a screening report may be considered at sentencing in the same manner as a presentence report. At sentencing, the defendant may present relevant evidence, including the results of any independent alcohol assessment that was conducted at the person’s own expense. Evidence regarding any such screening or an alcohol assessment performed at the expense of the defendant shall not be admissible for any other purpose without the defendant’s consent. (b) First offense. A person who violates section 1201 of this title may be fined not more than $750.00 or imprisoned for not more than two years, or both. (c) Second offense. A person convicted of violating section 1201 of this title who has been convicted of another violation of that section within the last 20 years shall be fined not more than $1,500.00 or imprisoned not more than two years, or both. At least 80 hours of community service shall be performed, or 60 consecutive hours of the sentence of imprisonment shall be served and may not be suspended or deferred or served as a supervised sentence, except that credit for a sentence of imprisonment may be received for time served in a residential alcohol facility pursuant to sentence if the program is successfully completed. (d) Third offense. A person convicted of violating section 1201 of this title who has previously been convicted two times of a violation of that section, including at least one violation within the last 20 years, shall be fined not more than $2,500.00 or imprisoned not more than five years, or both. At least 96 consecutive hours of the sentence of imprisonment shall be served and may not be suspended or deferred or served as a supervised sentence, except that credit for a sentence of imprisonment may be received for time served in a residential alcohol facility pursuant to sentence if the program is successfully completed. The court may impose a sentence that does not include a term of imprisonment or that does not require that the 96 hours of imprisonment be served consecutively only if the court makes written findings on the record that such a sentence will serve the interests of justice and public safety. (e) Fourth or subsequent offense. (1) A person convicted of violating section 1201 of this title who has previously been convicted three or more times of a violation of that section, including at least one violation within the last 20 years, shall be fined not more than $5,000.00 or imprisoned not more than 10 years, or both. At least 192 consecutive hours of the sentence of imprisonment shall be served and may not be suspended or deferred or served as a supervised sentence, except that credit for a sentence of imprisonment may be received for time served in a residential alcohol treatment facility pursuant to sentence if the program is successfully completed. The court shall not impose a sentence that does not include a term of imprisonment unless the court makes written findings on the record that there are compelling reasons why such a sentence will serve the interests of justice and public safety. (2) The Department of Corrections shall provide alcohol and substance abuse treatment, when appropriate, to any person convicted of a violation of this subsection. (f) Death resulting. (1) If the death of any person results from a violation of section 1201 of this title, the person convicted of the violation shall be fined not more than $10,000.00 or imprisoned not less than one year nor more than 15 years, or both. The provisions of this subsection do not limit or restrict prosecutions for manslaughter. (2) If the death or serious bodily injury of more than one person results from a violation of section 1201 of this title, the operator may be convicted of a separate violation of this subdivision for each decedent or person injured. (3)(A) If the death of any person results from a violation of section 1201 of this title and the person convicted of the violation previously has been convicted two or more times of a violation of that section, a sentence ordered pursuant to this subsection shall, except as provided in subdivision (B) of this subdivision (3), include at least a five-year term of imprisonment. The five-year minimum term of imprisonment required by this subdivision (3)(A) shall be served and may not be suspended, deferred, or served as a supervised sentence. The defendant shall not be eligible for probation, parole, furlough, or any other type of early release until the expiration of the five-year term of imprisonment. (B) Notwithstanding subdivision (A) of this subdivision (3), if the death or serious bodily injury of any person results from a violation of section 1201 of this title and the person convicted of the violation previously has been convicted two or more times of a violation of that section, the court may impose a sentence that does not include a term of imprisonment or that includes a term of imprisonment of less than five years if the court makes written findings on the record that such a sentence will serve the interests of justice and public safety. (g) Injury resulting. (1) If serious bodily injury results to any person other than the operator from a violation of section 1201 of this title, the person convicted of the violation shall be fined not more than $5,000.00 or imprisoned not more than 15 years, or both. (2) If serious bodily injury or death results to more than one person other than the operator from a violation of section 1201 of this title, the operator may be convicted of a separate violation of this subdivision for each person injured or decedent. (3)(A) If serious bodily injury results to any person other than the operator from a violation of section 1201 of this title and the person convicted of the violation previously has been convicted two or more times of a violation of section 1201, a sentence ordered pursuant to this subsection shall, except as provided in subdivision (B) of this subdivision (3), include at least a five-year term of imprisonment. The five-year minimum term of imprisonment required by this subdivision (3)(A) shall be served and may not be suspended, deferred, or served as a supervised sentence. The defendant shall not be eligible for probation, parole, furlough, or any other type of early release until the expiration of the five-year term of imprisonment. (B) Notwithstanding subdivision (A) of this subdivision (3), if serious bodily injury results to any person other than the operator from a violation of section 1201 of this title and the person convicted of the violation previously has been convicted two or more times of a violation of section 1201, the court may impose a sentence that does not include a term of imprisonment or that includes a term of imprisonment of less than five years if the court makes written findings on the record that such a sentence will serve the interests of justice and public safety. (h) Determination of fines. In determining appropriate fines under this section, the court may take into account the total cost to a defendant of alcohol screening, participation in the Alcohol and Driving Education Program and therapy, and the income of the defendant. (i) Surcharge; Blood and Breath Alcohol Testing Special Fund. A person convicted of violating section 1201 of this title shall be assessed a surcharge of $60.00, which shall be added to any fine imposed by the court. The court shall collect and transfer such surcharge to the Department of Public Safety for deposit in the Blood and Breath Alcohol Testing Special Fund established by section 1220b of this title. (j) Surcharge; Public Defender Special Fund. A person convicted of violating section 1201 of this title shall be assessed a surcharge of $50.00, which shall be added to any fine or surcharge imposed by the court. The court shall collect and transfer the surcharge assessed under this subsection to the Office of Defender General for deposit in the Public Defender Special Fund, specifying the source of the monies being deposited. The collection procedures described in 13 V.S.A. § 5240 shall be utilized in the collection of this surcharge. (k) Surcharge; DUI Enforcement Special Fund. A person convicted of violating section 1201 of this title shall be assessed a surcharge of $50.00, which shall be added to any fine or surcharge imposed by the court. The court shall collect and transfer the surcharge assessed under this subsection to be credited to the DUI Enforcement Special Fund. The collection procedures described in 13 V.S.A. § 5240 shall be utilized in the collection of this surcharge. Added 1969, No. 267 (Adj. Sess.), § 10; amended 1973, No. 79, § 8, eff. May 23, 1973; 1975, No. 103, § 6, eff. May 30, 1975; 1977, No. 101, § 1, eff. May 6, 1977; 1981, No. 205 (Adj. Sess.), § 2; 1983, No. 134 (Adj. Sess.), § 3; 1989, No. 68, § 7, eff. Dec. 1, 1989; 1991, No. 55, § 9; 1991, No. 234 (Adj. Sess.), § 1; 1993, No. 25, § 25, eff. May 18, 1993; 1995, No. 77 (Adj. Sess.), § 11, eff. March 21, 1996; 1997, No. 117 (Adj. Sess.), § 27; 1999, No. 160 (Adj. Sess.), § 21; 2007, No. 195 (Adj. Sess.), § 5; 2011, No. 56, § 5; 2011, No. 56, § 17, eff. March 1, 2012; 2019, No. 32, § 9; 2019, No. 131 (Adj. Sess.), § 193; 2025, No. 41, § 2, eff. July 1, 2025; 2025, No. 64, § 30, eff. June 12, 2025.

23 V.S.A. § 1211 Construction of cross references

1211. Construction of cross references For the purposes of computing offenses under this chapter, references to section 1201 of this title shall be construed to include sections of present or prior law of this or any other jurisdiction that prohibited operating, attempting to operate, or being in actual physical control of a motor vehicle on a highway while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or both, or while having 0.08 percent or more by weight of alcohol in the person’s blood or an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or more. Added 1981, No. 103, § 10; amended 1987, No. 62, § 6; 1991, No. 55, § 10; 2017, No. 83, § 161(4).

23 V.S.A. § 1212 Conditions of release and parole; arrest upon violation

1212. Conditions of release and parole; arrest upon violation (a) At the first appearance before a judicial officer of a person charged with violation of section 1201 of this title, the court, upon a plea of not guilty, shall consider whether to establish conditions of release. Those conditions may include a requirement that the defendant not operate a motor vehicle if there is a likelihood that the defendant will operate a motor vehicle in violation of section 1201 or 1213 of this title. The court may consider all relevant evidence, including whether the defendant has a motor vehicle or criminal record indicating prior convictions for one or more alcohol-related offenses. Prior convictions may be established for this purpose by a noncertified photocopy of a motor vehicle record, a computer printout, or an affidavit. Nothing in this section limits the authority of a judicial officer to impose other conditions of release, nor does it limit or modify other statutory provisions concerning license suspension or revocation or the right of a person to operate a motor vehicle. (b) A court that requires as a condition of release that a defendant not operate a motor vehicle shall so notify the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles. The Commissioner shall take suitable steps to ensure that this information is available to law enforcement officers. The court shall promptly advise the Commissioner of any modification of this condition of release and of the termination of proceedings. (c) A law enforcement officer who observes a person violating a condition of release requiring that he or she not operate a motor vehicle may promptly arrest the person for violating a condition of bail and shall bring the person before the nearest available judicial officer without unnecessary delay. A law enforcement officer who otherwise has probable cause to believe that a person has violated a condition of release requiring that he or she not operate a motor vehicle shall promptly notify a prosecuting officer. (d) A law enforcement officer who observes a person violating a condition of parole requiring that the person not operate a motor vehicle may promptly arrest the person for violating the condition and may detain the person pursuant to 28 V.S.A. § 551. The officer may immobilize the vehicle and shall immediately notify the Parole Board of the suspected violation. If the Parole Board determines pursuant to 28 V.S.A. § 552 that a parole violation has occurred, the Board shall notify the State’s Attorney in the county where the violation occurred, who may institute forfeiture proceedings against the vehicle under section 1213c of this title. Added 1983, No. 134 (Adj. Sess.), § 1; amended 2009, No. 126 (Adj. Sess.), § 8, eff. July 1, 2011; 2011, No. 56, § 11, eff. May 31, 2011; 2021, No. 20, § 242.

23 V.S.A. § 1213 Ignition interlock restricted driver’s license or certificate; penalties

1213. Ignition interlock restricted driver’s license or certificate; penalties (a)(1) An individual whose license or privilege to operate is suspended or revoked under this subchapter may operate a motor vehicle, other than a commercial motor vehicle as defined in section 4103 of this title, if issued a valid ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate. Upon application, the Commissioner shall issue an ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate to an individual otherwise licensed or eligible to be licensed to operate a motor vehicle if: (A) the individual submits a $125.00 application fee; (B) the individual submits satisfactory proof of installation of an approved ignition interlock device in any motor vehicle to be operated and of financial responsibility as provided in section 801 of this title; (C) at least one year has passed since the suspension or revocation was imposed if the offense involved death or serious bodily injury to an individual other than the operator; (D) the applicable period set forth in this subsection has passed since the suspension or revocation was imposed if the offense involved refusal of an enforcement officer’s reasonable request for an evidentiary test: (i) 30 days for a first offense; (ii) 90 days for a second offense; or (iii) one year for a third or subsequent offense; and (E) the individual is serving a suspension pursuant to section 2506 if the individual was charged with a violation of subsection 1201(a) of this title and pled guilty to a reduced charge of negligent operation under section 1091 of this title, notwithstanding any points assessed against the individual’s driving record for the negligent operation offense under section 2502 of this title. (2) A new ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate shall expire at midnight on the eve of the second birthday of the applicant following the date of issue and may be renewed for one-year terms. The Commissioner shall send by first-class mail an application for renewal of the RDL or certificate at least 30 days prior to the day renewal is required and shall impose the same conditions for renewal as are required for initial issuance. The renewal fee shall be $125.00. (b) [Repealed.] (c) [Repealed.] (d) If a fine is to be imposed for a conviction of a violation of section 1201 of this title, upon receipt of proof of installation of an approved ignition interlock device, the court may order that the fine of an individual with low-income conditionally be reduced by one-half to defray the costs of the ignition interlock device, subject to the individual’s ongoing operation under, and compliance with the terms of, a valid ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate as set forth in this section. In considering whether an individual’s fine should be reduced under this subsection, the court shall take into account any discount already provided by the device manufacturer or provider. (e) The holder of an ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate shall pay the costs of installing, purchasing or leasing, and removing the ignition interlock device as well as calibrating the device and retrieving data from it periodically as may be specified by the Commissioner. (f)(1) Prior to the issuance of an ignition interlock RDL or ignition interlock certificate under this section, the Commissioner shall notify the applicant that the period prior to eligibility for reinstatement may be extended under subsections (f)-(h) of this section. (2)(A) Prior to any such extension of the reinstatement period, the ignition interlock RDL or certificate holder shall be given notice and opportunity for a hearing. Service of the notice shall be sent by first-class mail to the last known address of the individual. The notice shall include a factual description of the grounds for an extension, a reference to the particular law allegedly violated, and a warning that the right to a hearing will be deemed waived, and an extension of the reinstatement period will be imposed, if a written request for a hearing is not received at the Department of Motor Vehicles within 15 days after the date of the notice. (B) When a holder receives a notice under subdivision (A) of this subdivision (f)(2), the holder shall be deemed to have waived the right to a hearing, unless a written request for a hearing is received at the Department of Motor Vehicles within 15 days after the date of the notice. If a hearing is not timely requested, the reinstatement period shall be extended in accordance with law. (C) The provisions of sections 105-107 of this title shall apply to hearings conducted under subdivision (2) of this subsection. (3)(A) A holder of an ignition interlock RDL or certificate who, prior to eligibility for reinstatement under section 1209a or 1216 of this title, is prevented from starting a motor vehicle because the ignition interlock device records a blood alcohol concentration of 0.04 or above shall be subject to a three-month extension of the applicable reinstatement period in the event of three such recorded events and to consecutive three-month extensions for every additional three recorded events thereafter. The Commissioner shall disregard a recording of 0.04 or above for the purposes of this subdivision (3)(A) if the Commissioner in his or her discretion finds, based on a pattern of tests or other reliable information, that the recording does not indicate the consumption of alcohol by the holder. The Commissioner shall notify the holder in writing after every recording of 0.04 or above that indicates the consumption of alcohol by the holder and, prior to any extension under this subdivision (3)(A), the holder shall have the opportunity to be heard pursuant to subdivision (2) of this subsection (f). (B) A holder of an ignition interlock RDL or certificate who, prior to eligibility for reinstatement under section 1209a or 1216 of this title, fails a random retest because the ignition interlock device records a blood alcohol concentration of 0.04 or above and below 0.08 shall be subject to consecutive three-month extensions of the applicable reinstatement period for every such recorded event. A holder who fails a random retest because of a recording of 0.08 or above shall be subject to consecutive six-month extensions of the applicable reinstatement period for every such recorded event. The Commissioner shall disregard a recording of 0.04 or above for the purposes of this subdivision (3)(B) if the Commissioner in his or her discretion finds, based on a pattern of tests or other reliable information, that the recording does not indicate the consumption of alcohol by the holder. The Commissioner shall notify the holder in writing after every recording of 0.04 or above that is indicative of the consumption of alcohol by the holder, and prior to any extension under this subdivision (3)(B), the holder shall have the opportunity to be heard pursuant to subdivision (2) of this subsection (f). (g) The holder of an ignition interlock RDL or certificate shall operate only motor vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device, shall not attempt or take any action to tamper with or otherwise circumvent an ignition interlock device, and, after failing a random retest, shall pull over and shut off the vehicle’s engine as soon as practicable. Except as provided in subsection (k) of this section, a person who violates any provision of this section commits a criminal offense, shall be subject to the sanctions and procedures provided for in subsections 674(b)–(i) of this title, and, upon conviction, the applicable period prior to eligibility for reinstatement under section 1209a or 1216 of this title shall be extended by six months. (h) A person who violates a rule adopted by the Commissioner pursuant to subsection (l) of this section shall, after notice and an opportunity to be heard is provided pursuant to subdivision (f)(2) of this section, be subject to an extension of the period prior to eligibility for reinstatement under section 1209a or 1216 of this title in accordance with rules adopted by the Commissioner. (i) Upon receipt of notice that the holder of an ignition interlock RDL or certificate has been convicted of an offense under this title that would result in suspension, revocation, or recall of a license or privilege to operate, the Commissioner shall suspend, revoke, or recall the individual’s ignition interlock RDL or certificate for the same period that the license or privilege to operate would have been suspended, revoked, or recalled. The Commissioner may impose a reinstatement fee in accordance with section 675 of this title and require, prior to reinstatement, satisfactory proof of installation of an approved ignition interlock device and of financial responsibility as provided in section 801 of this title. (j) [Repealed.] (k) A person shall not knowingly and voluntarily tamper with an ignition interlock device on behalf of another person or otherwise assist another person to circumvent an ignition interlock device. A person who violates this subsection shall be assessed a civil penalty of not more than $500.00. (l)(1) The Commissioner, in consultation with any persons the Commissioner deems appropriate, shall adopt rules and may enter into agreements to implement the provisions of this section. The Commissioner shall not approve a manufacturer of ignition interlock devices as a provider in this State unless the manufacturer agrees to reduce the cost of installing, leasing, and deinstalling the device by at least 50 percent for persons who furnish proof of receipt of 3SquaresVT, LIHEAP, or Reach Up benefits or like benefits in another state. (2) The rules shall establish uniform performance standards for ignition interlock devices, including required levels of accuracy in measuring blood alcohol concentration, efficacy in distinguishing valid breath samples, the occurrence of random retests while the vehicle is running, and automatic signaling by the vehicle if the operator fails such a retest. After an initial random retest to occur within 15 minutes of the vehicle starting, subsequent random retests shall occur on average not more often than once every 30 minutes. The Commissioner shall certify devices that meet these standards, specify any periodic calibration that may be required to ensure accuracy of the devices, and specify the means and frequency of the retrieval and sharing of data collected by ignition interlock devices. The rules also shall establish a schedule of extensions of the period prior to eligibility for reinstatement as authorized under subsection (h) of this section. (m)(1) Images and other individually identifiable information in the custody of a public agency related to the use of an ignition interlock device are exempt from public inspection and copying under the Public Records Act and shall not be disclosed except: (A) pursuant to a warrant; (B) if a law enforcement officer, in good faith, believes that an emergency involving danger of death or serious bodily injury to any person requires access to the information without delay; or (C) in connection with enforcement proceedings under this section or rules adopted pursuant to this section. (2) Images or information disclosed in violation of this subsection shall be inadmissible in any judicial or administrative proceeding. Added 2009, No. 126 (Adj. Sess.), § 9, eff. May 27, 2010; amended 2011, No. 46, § 23; 2011, No. 46, § 24, eff. June 30, 2011; 2011, No. 90 (Adj. Sess.), § 2; 2015, No. 158 (Adj. Sess.), § 47; 2015, No. 169 (Adj. Sess.), § 10; 2017, No. 71, § 14, eff. Aug. 7, 2017; 2017, No. 83, § 161(4); 2019, No. 131 (Adj. Sess.), § 194; 2023, No. 46, §§ 14, 23, eff. June 5, 2023.

23 V.S.A. § 1213a Immobilization of vehicle

1213a. Immobilization of vehicle (a) Immobilization. At the time of sentencing after a second or subsequent conviction under section 1201 of this title, the court may, upon the motion of the State, and in addition to any penalty imposed by law, order the motor vehicle operated by the defendant at the time of the offense seized and immobilized by a law enforcement agency designated by the court, as provided in this section and section 1213c of this title. (b) Immobilization on owner’s property. A motor vehicle subject to an immobilization order shall be immobilized, whenever possible, on property owned by the owner of the vehicle or on a parking space legally available to the owner of the vehicle. An immobilized vehicle is not exempt from enforcement of liens held by third parties. (c) Immobilization on State or private property. If the owner of the motor vehicle does not own property or have a parking area on which the vehicle can be immobilized, the vehicle shall be impounded on property owned by the State or on private property. All costs of impoundment shall be paid by the defendant. The period of impoundment shall run as if the vehicle were immobilized. (d) Expiration of immobilization order. An order of immobilization under this section shall expire in 18 months or when the defendant obtains a valid operator’s license, whichever comes first. (e) Release of vehicle. When an immobilization order expires, and when the costs provided for in this section have been paid in full by the defendant, the vehicle shall be released to its owner. (f) Costs. All costs of towing and impoundment shall be paid by the defendant before the vehicle is released to its owner. If the defendant fails to pay the towing and impoundment costs within 30 days after the immobilization order expires, the State is authorized to sell the vehicle by public auction pursuant to the procedures in section 1213c of this subchapter. The proceeds from the sale of the vehicle shall be used first to offset the costs of towing, impounding, and releasing the vehicle. Any balance remaining, after any liens on the vehicle have been paid in full, shall be paid to the owner of the vehicle. (g) Disbursement of proceeds. Proceeds from the defendant’s payment of the release fee and towing and impoundment costs shall be disbursed to the law enforcement agencies that incurred the costs. (h) Tampering. A person who tampers with an immobilization device or mobilizes a vehicle that is subject to an order of immobilization shall be imprisoned not more than two years or fined not more than $1,000.00, or both. Added 1997, No. 117 (Adj. Sess.), § 18; amended 2025, No. 18, § 42, eff. May 13, 2025.

23 V.S.A. § 1213b Forfeiture of vehicle

1213b. Forfeiture of vehicle At the time of sentencing after a third or subsequent conviction under section 1201 of this title or after a conviction under subdivision 1130(c)(1) of this title, or upon a determination by the Parole Board that a person has violated a condition of parole requiring that the person not operate a motor vehicle, the court may, upon motion of the State and in addition to any penalty imposed by law and after notice and hearing, order the motor vehicle operated by the defendant or parolee at the time of the offense forfeited and sold as provided in section 1213c of this title. Added 1997, No. 117 (Adj. Sess.), § 19; amended 2011, No. 56, § 12, eff. May 31, 2011.

23 V.S.A. § 1213c Immobilization and forfeiture proceedings

1213c. Immobilization and forfeiture proceedings (a) Notice. The State shall provide the following persons with notice of an immobilization or forfeiture hearing: (1) the defendant; (2) the registered owner or owners; (3) any holder of a security interest in or lien on the vehicle; and (4) any other person appearing to be an innocent owner or operator as described in subsection (g) of this section. (b) Content of notice. The notice shall contain the following: (1) a description of the motor vehicle, including vehicle identification number, make, model, and year; (2) the name of the registered owner or owners, lienholder, and any other person appearing to be an innocent owner or operator as described in subsection (g) of this section; (3) the date, time, and place of the hearing; and (4) a statement that any person who is an owner, an innocent owner or operator, or who holds a security interest in or claims any interest in the motor vehicle may appear and be heard at the hearing to protect the person’s interest in the motor vehicle. (c) Service of notice. The notice of hearing shall be served as provided for in the Vermont Rules of Civil Procedure on the registered owner or owners and any lienholders as shown on the certificate of title for the vehicle as shown in the records of the department of motor vehicles in the state in which the vehicle is registered or titled. (d) Hearing. The court shall hold a hearing to determine whether or not to order the motor vehicle immobilized or forfeited. The proceeding shall be against the motor vehicle and shall be deemed civil in nature. (e) Hardship consideration. In determining the motion, the court may consider any undue hardship that immobilization or forfeiture would cause to a person, other than the defendant, who is dependent on the motor vehicle for essential transportation needs. In making such determination, the court shall consider any evidence of past or current domestic violence. (f) Order. The court shall make findings of fact and conclusions of law and shall issue a final order. The court may order the motor vehicle immobilized or forfeited if the court finds that: (1) the motor vehicle is subject to immobilization or forfeiture; (2) the notice as required by this section was served; and (3) no party has shown that he or she is an innocent owner or operator as described in subsection (g) of this section. (g) Rights of innocent owner or operator. The court shall not order the immobilization or forfeiture of a motor vehicle if an owner, co-owner, or person who regularly operates the motor vehicle, other than the defendant, shows by a preponderance of the evidence that the owner, co-owner, or regular operator did not consent to or have any express or implied knowledge that the motor vehicle was being or was intended to be operated in a manner that would subject the motor vehicle to immobilization or forfeiture, or that the owner, co-owner, or regular operator had no reasonable opportunity or capacity to prevent the defendant from operating the motor vehicle. (h) Rented or leased vehicles. A vehicle that is rented or leased for a period of less than one year shall not be subject to immobilization or forfeiture unless it is established in the proceedings that the owner of the rented or leased vehicle knew of or consented to the operation of the motor vehicle in a manner that would subject the vehicle to immobilization or forfeiture. (i) Lienholder. If the court finds that a person has an enforceable lien on or other interest in the motor vehicle that is not held through a straw purchase, trust, or otherwise for the actual benefit of another and that the person did not know of or consent to the operation of the motor vehicle in a manner that would subject the vehicle to immobilization or forfeiture, the court shall: (1) permit the person to enforce the lien or other interest as provided by law if such enforcement does not result in the return of the motor vehicle to the defendant; or (2) upon immobilization or forfeiture, order compensation to the person, to the extent of the person’s interest, from the proceeds of the resulting sale. (j) Order of forfeiture. If the court orders the motor vehicle forfeited, it shall be delivered into the custody of the Commissioner of Buildings and General Services, who shall dispose of the motor vehicle pursuant to 29 V.S.A. § 1556. The proceeds from the sale of the vehicle shall first be used to offset any costs of selling the vehicle and then, after any liens on the vehicle have been paid in full, applied to any unpaid restitution owed by the defendant in connection with the charge that resulted in forfeiture. Any balance remaining shall be deposited into the General Fund. (k) Appeal. A decision of the court under this section may be appealed as a matter of right to the Supreme Court. (l) Disbursement of proceeds. Proceeds from the defendant’s payment of the release fee and towing and impoundment costs shall be disbursed to the law enforcement agencies that incurred the costs. (m) Owning, leasing, and renting prohibited. After issuance of an immobilization or forfeiture order, and during the defendant’s license suspension or revocation period, the defendant shall not operate, purchase, lease, or rent a motor vehicle. A person who violates this subsection shall be imprisoned not more than two years or fined not more than $1,000.00, or both. (n) Selling or encumbering prohibited. (1) Except as provided in subdivision (2) of this subsection, after a person is detained, arrested, lodged, or released upon citation for a second or subsequent violation of section 1201 of this title, no person shall sell, transfer, or encumber the title to a vehicle that the person knows may be subject to immobilization under section 1213a of this title or forfeiture under section 1213b of this title, unless approved by the court in which the charge is filed for good cause shown. A person who violates this section shall be imprisoned not more than two years or fined not more than $1,000.00, or both. (2) If the State has not commenced a prosecution for a second or subsequent violation of section 1201 of this title within 90 days after the detention, arrest, lodging, or release upon citation, the person may sell, transfer, or encumber the subject vehicle. (o) Funding. A law enforcement or prosecution agency conducting forfeitures under this section may accept, receive, and disburse in furtherance of its duties and functions under this section any appropriations, grants, and donations made available by the State of Vermont and its agencies, the federal government and its agencies, any municipality or other unit of local government, or private or civil sources. Added 1997, No. 117 (Adj. Sess.), § 20; amended 2001, No. 146 (Adj. Sess.), § 4; 2003, No. 41, § 1; 2007, No. 40, § 7; 2009, No. 154 (Adj. Sess.), § 161; 2015, No. 53, § 8; 2019, No. 131 (Adj. Sess.), §§ 195, 196; 2023, No. 85 (Adj. Sess.), § 289, eff. July 1, 2024.

23 V.S.A. § 1215 Injunctive relief

1215. Injunctive relief If the Commissioner has not reinstated a license after the suspension or revocation period has run under this subchapter, and the person alleges he or she has complied with section 1209a of this title or alleges that the alcohol assessment screening does not indicate that therapy should be a condition of reinstatement, he or she may seek injunctive relief in the Criminal Division of the Superior Court in the manner provided by the Vermont Rules of Civil Procedure. In such actions, the Driver Rehabilitation Program Director shall be the proper defendant. Added 1989, No. 68, § 10, Dec. 1, 1989; amended 1995, No. 112 (Adj. Sess.), § 13, eff. April 22, 1996; 2009, No. 154 (Adj. Sess.), § 238.

23 V.S.A. § 1218 Commercial motor vehicles; 0.04

1218. Commercial motor vehicles; 0.04 (a) A person shall not operate, attempt to operate, or be in actual physical control of a commercial motor vehicle: (1) when the person’s alcohol concentration is 0.04 or more; or (2) when the person is under the influence of alcohol; or (3) when the person is under the influence of any other drug or under the combined influence of alcohol and any other drug to a degree that renders the person incapable of driving safely. (b) A violation of this section shall result in disqualification from driving a commercial motor vehicle as provided in section 4116 of this title or in suspension of the privilege to operate a commercial motor vehicle as provided in section 4116a of this title. Those provisions of section 1205 of this title that establish a procedure for civil suspensions shall apply to this section, except that where that section refers to alcohol concentration it shall be deemed to refer to an alcohol concentration of 0.04. Added 1991, No. 88, § 13, eff. April 1, 1992; amended 1999, No. 160 (Adj. Sess.), § 25; 2017, No. 83, § 161(4).

23 V.S.A. § 1219 Commercial motor vehicle; detectable amount; out-of-service

1219. Commercial motor vehicle; detectable amount; out-of-service A person who is operating, attempting to operate, or in actual physical control of a commercial motor vehicle with any measurable or detectable amount of alcohol in his or her system shall immediately be placed out-of-service for 24 hours by an enforcement officer. A law enforcement officer who has reasonable grounds to believe that a person has a measurable or detectable amount of alcohol in his or her system on the basis of the person’s general appearance, conduct, or other substantiating evidence may request the person to submit to a test, which may be administered with a preliminary screening device. The law enforcement officer shall inform the person at the time the test is requested that refusal to submit will result in disqualification. If the person refuses to submit to the test, the person shall immediately be placed out-of-service for 24 hours and shall be disqualified from driving a commercial motor vehicle as provided in section 4116 of this title. Added 1991, No. 88, § 14.

23 V.S.A. § 1220a DUI Enforcement Special Fund

1220a. DUI Enforcement Special Fund (a) There is created a DUI Enforcement Special Fund, which shall be a special fund established and managed pursuant to 32 V.S.A. chapter 7, subchapter 5. The DUI Enforcement Special Fund shall be a continuation of and successor to the DUI Enforcement Special Fund established under subsection 1205(r) of this title. (b) The DUI Enforcement Special Fund shall consist of: (1) receipts from the surcharges assessed under section 206 and subsections 674(i), 1091(d), 1094(f), 1128(d), 1133(d), 1205(r), and 1210(k) of this title; (2) beginning in fiscal year 2000 and thereafter, the first $150,000.00 of revenues collected from fines imposed under this subchapter pertaining to DUI related offenses; (3) beginning May 1, 2013 and thereafter, $0.0038 per gallon of the revenues raised by the motor fuel tax on gasoline imposed by chapter 28 of this title, except for the revenues raised by the tax on aviation gasoline; and (4) any additional funds transferred or appropriated by the General Assembly. (c) The DUI Enforcement Special Fund shall be used for the implementation and enforcement of this subchapter for purposes specified and in amounts appropriated by the General Assembly. Effort shall be given to awarding grants to municipalities or law enforcement agencies for innovative programs designed to reduce DUI offenses, and priority shall be given to grants requested jointly by more than one law enforcement agency or municipality. Added 1997, No. 117 (Adj. Sess.), § 41; amended 1999, No. 152 (Adj. Sess.), § 77, eff. May 29, 2000; 2011, No. 56, § 6, eff. May 31, 2011; 2013, No. 12, § 25, eff. May 1, 2013; 2017, No. 158 (Adj. Sess.), § 34, eff. Jan. 1, 2019.

23 V.S.A. § 1220b Blood and Breath Alcohol Testing Special Fund

1220b. Blood and Breath Alcohol Testing Special Fund (a) There is created a Blood and Breath Alcohol Testing Special Fund, which shall be a special fund established and managed pursuant to 32 V.S.A. chapter 7, subchapter 5. (b) The Blood and Breath Alcohol Testing Special Fund shall consist of receipts from the surcharges assessed under subsection 1210(i) of this title. (c) The Blood and Breath Alcohol Testing Special Fund shall be used for the implementation and support of the Blood and Breath Alcohol Testing Program within the Department of Public Safety. Added 2011, No. 56, § 19, eff. March 1, 2012.
Source: Vermont General Assembly (legislature.vermont.gov)URL: https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/chapter/23/013Fetched: 10/21/2026

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