This is the most asked question in OUI defense, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Refusing triggers an automatic 180-day license suspension on a first offense, 3 years on a second offense, 5 years on a third, and a lifetime suspension on a fourth. However, the refusal itself cannot be used as evidence of guilt at trial, unlike most states. A failed breath test (.08+) gives the Commonwealth per se evidence that is very hard to beat. If you are a repeat offender or have a high-probability BAC, refusing often helps the criminal case even though it hurts the license. If you have one drink and are borderline, taking the test may clear you. Every roadside decision is a judgment call, and you will not have a Massachusetts DUI lawyer with you at the moment of truth.