---
title: "What happens if I refuse a breathalyzer in Rhode Island?"
description: "Refusing a breathalyzer in Rhode Island triggers implied consent penalties under R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-27-2.1: automatic license suspension of 6 months for a first refusal, 1 year for a second, and 2..."
url: https://www.chadbanklaw.com/faq-items/what-happens-if-i-refuse-a-breathalyzer-in-rhode-island/
date: 2026-05-23
modified: 2026-05-23
author: "The Law Office of Chad F Bank"
type: avada_faq
lang: en
---

# What happens if I refuse a breathalyzer in Rhode Island?

Refusing a breathalyzer in Rhode Island triggers implied consent penalties under R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-27-2.1: automatic license suspension of 6 months for a first refusal, 1 year for a second, and 2 years for a third within a five-year period. The refusal also produces a separate civil charge with fines from $200 to $500 plus 10 to 60 hours of community service. The refusal is admissible at trial as evidence of consciousness of guilt. The DMV imposes the license suspension administratively, separate from any DUI criminal case outcome.