In North Carolina, a DWI can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. While the vast majority of people charged with DWI face misdemeanor charges, if certain factors exist, the charge automatically becomes a Class “F” felony and is termed Habitual Impaired Driving. In order for a DWI in North Carolina to be charged as a felony, the person must have three (3) prior DWI convictions all within ten (10) years of the current charged offense of impaired driving. In the event that a person is charged with Habitual Impaired Driving, they face a minimum of twelve (12) months in prison, which cannot be suspended and a permanent revocation of their driving privileges in North Carolina.