What exactly is the difference between a dui and a dwi? The two terms deal with essentially the same crime, which is operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of either drugs or alcohol. DWI stands for driving while intoxicated and DUI stands for driving under the influence. Both are very serious crimes and should be taken very seriously by those who have been charged with either. In certain states in the US, there is a difference with regard to the severity of the charge. Depending on where you are, a DUI may be considered a lesser offense than a DWI. The distinction exists because being under the influence can imply that the driver is less impaired than if they were intoxicated, by definition. It has to do with the level of impairment caused by the drugs or alcohol on your coordination and motor skills. Depending on the state in which you live, there may be a difference between the penalties of a dui and a dwi. If you are charged with the more serious crime in that state, getting a good attorney could possibly get the charge changed from a DWI to a DUI. Much will depend upon the blood alcohol level obtained as well as the number of prior offenses if any.