Open Container Law in Pennsylvania
Under Pennsylvania open container law, possession of an open container of alcohol while on the roadway is considered illegal. Both driver and passenger caught violating this law may be cited for violations.
Under Pennsylvania open container law, possession of an open container of alcohol while on the roadway is considered illegal. Both driver and passenger caught violating this law may be cited for violations.
A DUI conviction in Pennsylvania is a criminal record, not a traffic ticket. What it means for your record, the fines by tier and offense, and ways to avoid or limit a conviction.
Pennsylvania has never been a state known to go easy on DUI offenders. The cost of an ignition interlock device for many is very high and may hurt the bank account initially. Regardless, it is much better than the alternative route.
Pennsylvania DUI law has changed significantly since 2018: felony grading for repeat DUIs, tougher penalties for DUI-related suspensions and homicide by vehicle, the 2025 Shifflett ruling on ARD, and Act 58’s new DUI following diversion offense.
Under Pennsylvania law, you must have control of the vehicle to face driving under influence (DUI) charges. However, passengers could face a number of DUI related charges.
Pennsylvania is extremely harsh and resilient when it comes to drinking and driving laws, and if you are found guilty of DUI accident charges, you can face severe penalties.




