DWI Fact #8: What are the penalties for DWI? The penalties for DWI vary according to the number of offenses and the circumstances of your situation. For example, a first offender may be ordered to pay up to a $2,000 fine, serve jail time from 3 to 180 days and have their license suspended for up to 2 years. The fines and jail time increase with the number of offenses. You may also have to pay an annual surcharge to the State in order to keep your license. If you are found guilty of Intoxication Assault or Intoxication Manslaughter, you will be a convicted felon and could face prison time of up to 20 years.