How much does a DUI cost?+
A first-offense DUI typically costs $10,000-$25,000+ when you include fines, court costs, insurance increases, IID costs, DUI school, attorney fees, towing, and bail. The insurance increase alone averages $5,000-$15,000 over 3-5 years. North Carolina has the highest insurance impact (300-400% increase) while Pennsylvania has the lowest (30-50%).
How much does car insurance go up after a DUI?+
Nationally, insurance rates increase about 88% on average after a DUI. North Carolina has the largest increase at 300-400%+. California, Georgia, Hawaii, and Michigan see 100-130% increases. Pennsylvania has the lowest at 30-50%. The increase typically lasts 3-5 years and can add $5,000-$25,000+ to your total insurance costs.
Do I need a lawyer for a DUI?+
While not required, a DUI attorney can often negotiate reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or dismissal. Attorney fees range from $2,500 for a simple plea to $10,000+ for trial. Studies suggest represented defendants get better outcomes in 70-80% of cases. For first offenses with low BAC and no aggravating factors, some people handle it themselves.
How long does a DUI stay on your record?+
It varies by state. 11 states (including Alaska, Colorado, Kansas, Massachusetts, Oregon, and Texas) have lifetime lookback periods — meaning a DUI from decades ago still counts as a prior. Other states range from 5 years (Alabama, Mississippi, Missouri) to 15 years (DC, Nebraska). Most states use a 10-year lookback.
What is an ignition interlock device (IID)?+
An IID is a breathalyzer wired into your vehicle's ignition. You must blow into it and register below a set BAC (usually 0.02-0.04) before the car will start. It also requires random retests while driving. Cost: ~$70-150/month rental plus $100-200 installation. 34 states + DC require IID for all first-offense DUI convictions.
What is SR-22 insurance?+
SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility filed by your insurance company with the DMV, proving you carry minimum required coverage. It is NOT a type of insurance — it's a filing. Most states require it for 3 years after a DUI. Any lapse resets the clock. The filing fee is $15-50, but the real cost is the higher insurance premiums during the SR-22 period.
What is Utah's 0.05 BAC law?+
Utah lowered its legal BAC limit from 0.08 to 0.05 effective December 30, 2018, making it the strictest in the nation. All other states use 0.08. For reference, a 180-pound man may reach 0.05 after just 2 drinks in one hour.
Is a first DUI a felony?+
In most states, a standard first-offense DUI is a misdemeanor. However, certain aggravating factors can elevate it to a felony: causing serious injury or death, having a minor passenger, extremely high BAC, or multiple prior offenses. Oklahoma's SB 54 (effective November 2025) made some first-offense DUIs felonies. A second or third DUI is a felony in many states.