A New Era for DUI Law in Oklahoma

Starting November 1, 2025, the State of Oklahoma began enforcing significantly tougher rules for driving under the influence (DUI). The passage of Senate Bill 54 (“SB 54”) now means that what used to be a straightforward misdemeanor for many first‐time offenders is now much more serious.

What’s changing?

Here are the key takeaways of the new law:

• The definition of “aggravated DUI” has been expanded. Under SB 54, a DUI may be considered “aggravated” (and thus eligible for felony charges) if the driver, in addition to impaired driving, also:

  • causes an accident of any sort;

  • is driving with a minor in the vehicle;

  • eludes law enforcement;

  • engages in reckless driving, excessive speeding or other serious traffic violations while under the influence;

  • has a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.15 or higher;

• Because of the broadened definition, even a first‐time DUI can now be charged as a felony under certain circumstances.

• There will be mandatory minimum jail time for aggravated DUIs. Judges will have less discretion to convert these to probation without incarceration.

Why this matters

For drivers in Oklahoma, the implications are substantial:

• What might have previously been a misdemeanor charge with less severe consequences may now trigger felony exposure, which could mean: longer jail terms or prison, larger fines, longer driver’s license consequences, and long-term complications such as employment effects.

• The risk profile of a DUI arrest has changed. If any of the aggravating factors (accident, minor passenger, high speed, etc.) apply, you just can no longer assume the old misdemeanor rules apply.

• From a public-safety perspective, the new law signals that impaired driving is being treated with heightened seriousness — especially when other risky behavior is present.

What drivers should watch out for

If you drive in Oklahoma, it’s wise to keep the following in mind:

1. Drinking and driving is always risky — but the stakes are higher now. Even a first offense with aggravating factors could lead to felony charges.

2. If you are pulled over under suspicion of DUI, consider whether any of the aggravating factors might apply (child in car, accident, eluding, excessive speed) and adjust your legal-strategy expectations accordingly.

3. If you are charged with DUI on or after November 1, 2025 you must assume you are facing the new law and it’s harsher penalties.

4. Consult an experienced DUI attorney immediately. Because the law changed, the defense approach may differ significantly from past practice.

5. Avoid impaired driving altogether. The safest choice remains not to drink and drive and do not use substances that could impair your ability to drive.

Final thoughts

Drinking and driving doesn’t just risk an arrest; under the new law, it may risk your future. With SB 54 in force, the State of Oklahoma is raising the bar on what constitutes serious impaired‐driving behavior.

If you or someone you know is dealing with a DUI charge in Oklahoma under this new law, contact Justin Lowe & Associates immediately.