Final answer:
A felony DWI typically occurs upon a driver's third or subsequent conviction within a ten-year period, depending on the state laws.
Step-by-step explanation:
A felony DWI may occur upon a driver's third or subsequent conviction within a ten-year period. Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) laws vary by state, but commonly, a felony charge is elevated from a misdemeanor when a driver reaches a certain threshold of offenses within a specified time frame. This enhancement in charges reflects the increased danger to the public and the driver's repeated disregard for the laws regarding impaired driving. The exact number of offenses required for a DWI to qualify as a felony can differ based on jurisdiction, though many states consider the third offense within ten years to meet the criteria for a felony.