---
title: "Is OUI the same as DUI in Massachusetts?"
description: "Yes. Massachusetts uses \"OUI\" (Operating Under the Influence) as the statutory term under M.G.L. c. 90, § 24, while most of the country uses \"DUI\" (Driving Under the Influence) or \"DWI\" (Driving..."
url: https://bankandmunns.com/faq-items/is-oui-the-same-as-dui-in-massachusetts/
date: 2026-04-21
modified: 2026-04-22
author: "Bank and Munns"
type: avada_faq
lang: en
---

# Is OUI the same as DUI in Massachusetts?

Yes. Massachusetts uses "OUI" (Operating Under the Influence) as the statutory term under M.G.L. c. 90, § 24, while most of the country uses "DUI" (Driving Under the Influence) or "DWI" (Driving While Intoxicated). The conduct covered is identical: operating a motor vehicle on a public way while impaired by alcohol or drugs, or with a BAC of .08 or higher. When you search for a **Massachusetts DUI lawyer**, you are looking for an OUI defense lawyer in legal terms. The Commonwealth also recognizes "OUI-Liquor," "OUI-Drugs," and "OUI-Marijuana" as distinct charges under the same statute. Practically, court paperwork, police reports, and the RMV will all use "OUI," but the defense strategy and penalty structure are the same as a DUI in any other state.