For medical professionals, a DWI (Driving While Impaired) charge can be a source of immense stress. Beyond the immediate legal consequences, the potential impact on your medical license adds another layer of worry.
Unlike criminal courts, the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice (MBMP) has independent authority to discipline licensed healthcare providers. This means a DWI arrest or conviction, even if it does not result in criminal penalties, can trigger an investigation from the MBMP. The Board prioritizes public safety and upholds the profession’s ethical standards. A DWI charge may raise concerns about a licensee’s judgment and ability to practice medicine safely.
If you’re a healthcare professional facing a DWI charge, it’s important to understand that not all offenses are viewed equally, especially by the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice (MBMP). A first-time misdemeanor DWI may be seen as an isolated lapse in judgment, particularly if there was no accident, no injuries, and your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was just over the legal limit. In these situations, the Board might opt for a warning, a monitoring agreement, or lesser disciplinary action.
However, the stakes increase significantly if certain aggravating factors are present. These can include:
A high BAC, typically 0.16 or above
A second or third offense
Any DWI that resulted in injuries or property damage
Refusal to submit to chemical testing
Prior disciplinary action by the Board—whether related to substance use or not
The MBMP takes these cases seriously, and multiple alcohol-related offenses or a documented pattern of substance abuse can raise red flags about your judgment, professionalism, and ability to safely practice medicine. In such cases, the Board is much more likely to impose stricter sanctions, including license suspension, mandatory treatment, or even revocation.
Once you’ve been charged with a DWI, your next steps can have a significant impact on how the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice (MBMP) views your case. The Board doesn’t just look at the offense itself—it also evaluates how you respond to it. Taking responsibility and showing a genuine effort to address the situation can work in your favor.
One of the best things you can do is to proactively enroll in a DWI education course or substance abuse treatment program, even if it’s not court-ordered. Doing so shows the Board that you’re not minimizing the incident or making excuses. Instead, you’re taking it seriously and making an effort to understand the risks and avoid future problems.
This kind of early intervention demonstrates insight, accountability, and a willingness to change—traits the MBMP values when assessing your fitness to practice medicine. In many cases, showing that you’ve already taken concrete steps to address alcohol use can:
Help reduce the severity of any disciplinary action
Lead to a more favorable outcome in a settlement conference
Potentially prevent formal disciplinary proceedings altogether
Documentation is key. Be prepared to provide proof of completion, therapist or counselor reports, and any recommendations for follow-up care. The more evidence you can show that you’re actively working to prevent a recurrence, the better your chances of preserving your medical license.
Following a DWI charge, the MBMP may initiate an investigation. You’ll be notified and have the opportunity to respond with an explanation and any mitigating factors. The potential outcomes range from no action to license revocation, depending on the severity of the case and your response. License probation is the most common outcome for a first-time offense. It involves monitoring, random drug and alcohol testing and potentially completing educational programs.
In more serious cases, the MBMP may suspend your license for a specific period. You wouldn’t be able to practice medicine during this time. License revocation is the most severe consequence, typically reserved for repeat offenses or situations raising serious concerns about patient safety.
A DWI charge can be a challenging experience for medical professionals in Minnesota to navigate successfully. However, understanding the process and taking proactive steps can help minimize the impact on your license. By addressing the situation responsibly and seeking legal counsel, you can address this difficult situation as effectively as possible, and better protect your career.
