The distinction between driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) and driving while impaired by alcohol (DWI) is one of degree. Both crimes require that normal coordination be reduced as a result of the consumption of alcohol.

Driving under the influence is the more serious crime. It requires that the alcohol the person has consumed has substantially impaired the person's normal coordination.

Driving while impaired is the less serious crime. It requires that the alcohol the person has consumed has impaired normal coordination to some extent.

Driving under the influence per se means that it is a crime in Maryland for a driver to take a test that showed an alcohol level at the time of .08 or more