---
title: "What is the penalty for a DUI with a child in the car in Rhode Island?"
description: "Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-27-2(d)(5)(ii), a first offense is a misdemeanor with up to 1 year in jail and a fine up to $1,000, plus immediate license suspension pending prosecution and a suspension..."
url: https://riduilaws.com/faq-items/what-is-the-penalty-for-a-dui-with-a-child-in-the-car-in-rhode-island/
date: 2026-10-29
modified: 2026-10-29
author: "RI DUI Laws"
type: faq
lang: en
---

# What is the penalty for a DUI with a child in the car in Rhode Island?

Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-27-2(d)(5)(ii), a first offense is a misdemeanor with up to 1 year in jail and a fine up to $1,000, plus immediate license suspension pending prosecution and a suspension of up to 2 years at sentencing. A second or subsequent offense is a felony with up to 5 years in prison and a fine up to $5,000. A separate felony charge under § 11-9-5 may also apply.

What is the penalty for a DUI with a child in the car in Rhode Island?[RI DUI Laws](https://riduilaws.com/author/admin_xxgjem88/)2026-10-29T22:41:46+00:00