What happens if you refuse to take a breathalyzer test in Missouri?

If you refuse to take a breathalyzer test in Missouri, the correct outcome is an automatic license suspension. This law operates under the principle of implied consent, which means that by driving in Missouri, you are implicitly agreeing to submit to a breath or chemical test if requested by law enforcement under suspicion of driving under the influence. When a driver refuses this test, they face immediate administrative penalties, specifically the suspension of their driving privileges.

This suspension is separate from any potential criminal charges that may arise from a DUI arrest. The severity of the suspension can depend on prior offenses, but the key takeaway is that refusing the test carries significant consequences that affect a person's ability to legally drive. Understanding this consequence highlights the importance of being aware of one's rights and responsibilities when operating a vehicle in Missouri.