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Last Modified on Aug 31, 2026
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After a DUI arrest, a blood test can provide important evidence about the amount of alcohol or drugs in a driver’s system. If you’re facing charges, you may be asking, “How long do DUI blood test results take in Hawaii?”
While official results can take several weeks or longer to come back, that doesn’t mean the case doesn’t move forward. In the meantime, it’s wise to consult an experienced DUI attorney for legal guidance.
Why Choose The Law Office of R. Patrick McPherson?
With an average of 30% of traffic deaths involving alcohol, Hawaii DUI laws severely punish offenders. If you’re facing charges, you can rely on The Law Office of R. Patrick McPherson. With over 20 years of experience, we know what it takes to build a strong defense against DUI allegations. As “Honolulu’s Most Recognized DUI Attorney,” Patrick knows how to protect your rights.* Our firm can provide the legal services you need.
How Long DUI Blood Tests Take
In Hawaii, DUI blood test results can take over a month to become available. The exact timeline depends on the lab’s workload, the substances being tested for, and whether additional testing is required to confirm the findings. Tests for drugs may take longer than those for alcohol because the lab may need to screen for several substances.
A hospital may produce results quickly if medical treatment is involved, but those findings may differ from an official forensic report. The police or prosecutor usually waits for the laboratory to complete its analysis and certify the results.
Why Blood Results May Be Delayed for DUI Cases
In 2023, Hawaii’s four county police departments stopped 109,768 drivers at sobriety checkpoints, arresting 511 motorists for suspicion of operating their vehicles under the influence of alcohol and another 449 for drugs. With the total arrests for DUI and other crimes, state labs often have a backlog of samples to test. Drug testing often takes longer because technicians need to screen for several substances and measure the amount of each.
Samples may also require confirmation testing before the lab issues its final report. Delays also occur in transportation, evidence processing, and reviews. If the defense requests independent testing, that process can extend the timeline further. These delays are common and don’t always indicate a problem with a DUI case.
Can You Be Charged While Awaiting Test Results?
While Hawaii Revised Statutes § 291E-3 sets the legal limit at a BAC of 0.08%, you can face charges for a DUI, even before your blood test results are available. Prosecutors may rely on other evidence, such as:
- Unsafe driving
- The officer’s observations
- Field sobriety test performance
- Statements you made
- Substances found in your vehicle
Hire a DUI Lawyer
Waiting for a DUI blood test result can leave you unsure about what happens next. However, the case may continue based on the officer’s observations and other available evidence. If you’ve been arrested, hire a skilled DUI lawyer to get the legal guidance you need. Contact The Law Office of R. Patrick McPherson today to learn more about our legal services.
* Every case is different, and past results don’t guarantee future success.
