Healthcare Policy & Insurance Editor · Last reviewed January 2025
A DUI conviction triggers immediate and long-term consequences across multiple domains — criminal, administrative, financial, and professional. While consequences vary significantly by state, BAC level, whether there were injuries, and prior DUI history, this article outlines the major consequence categories individuals typically face.
Criminal Consequences
A first-offense DUI is typically a misdemeanor in most states, though it can be elevated to a felony if a child was present, injuries or death occurred, or the BAC was extremely high. Criminal consequences include arrest and booking, court appearances, fines and court costs (often $1,500–$5,000 or more for a first offense, before attorney fees), probation, and potential jail time (often suspended for first offenses with probation). Some jurisdictions mandate ignition interlock device installation.
A DUI conviction creates a criminal record that can affect employment (particularly in jobs requiring driving or licenses), professional licensing, housing applications, and federal student loan eligibility. Records may be expungeable in some states after completion of sentence and a waiting period — an attorney familiar with your state's DUI law can advise on expungement eligibility.
License Suspension
License suspension is a near-universal consequence of DUI, typically triggered both through administrative action by the DMV (often within 30 days of arrest, regardless of criminal conviction) and through the criminal court process. Suspension length varies by state and offense history — typically 6–12 months for a first offense. Most states offer hardship or restricted licenses allowing driving to work, school, or medical appointments during the suspension period, typically requiring ignition interlock installation.
Insurance Consequences
A DUI conviction results in significant auto insurance rate increases — typically 50–100% or more — and may result in non-renewal by your current insurer. A DUI typically affects insurance rates for 3–7 years, depending on state regulations on how long DUI convictions can be rated. See our article on car insurance after DUI for details on finding and affording coverage.
SR22 Requirement
Most states require individuals with DUI convictions to file an SR22 — a certificate of financial responsibility from an insurance company confirming you carry the state's minimum required liability coverage. SR22 is not a type of insurance policy; it is a form filed by your insurer with the state DMV. See our full article on SR22 insurance.
Related: SR22 Insurance · DUI & Addiction · Car Insurance After DUI