How long does a DUI stay on your record?

For most drivers, getting a DUI or a DWI is a horrendous situation. Even though people generally fear the repercussions of a DUI, arrests for impaired driving are incredibly high.

Once you receive a DUI, it remains on your record for a long time. Most states retain it for five to ten years, though some states like Alaska and Texas keep it on record forever.

While many legal issues arise with a DUI (particularly if you hurt someone), one of the most inconvenient is that you’ll pay more for your auto insurance. You might also have to fill out an SR-22, which can affect your employment.

The best option for everyone is to avoid a DUI altogether, but we all make mistakes.

If you’re wondering how long a DUI stays on your record, you should know that some insurance companies are more lenient than others. If you need to discover what insurance quotes might look like for you, enter your ZIP code into our free tool.

How long is a DUI on your record by state?

Most states keep a DUI on your record for five to ten years. There is a lot of variance between states on DUI laws, though, so you’ll need to check with your state’s MVD for more details.

In most states, a point system monitors your driving infractions. You receive points for traffic violations like speeding, running stop signs, and even aggressive driving.

If you accumulate too many points, you can lose your license. DUIs usually have the highest point count for violations. Of course, the number of DUIs you have will also affect your points. For example, your first DUI might not be worth as many points as additional DUIs.

While getting a DUI is a complicated process, you can review the table below to get an idea of how many points you’ll accumulate on your license.

States that don’t use a point system have other penalties for DUIs, such as license suspension, fines, jail time, or community service.

As you can see, points do eventually vanish. That means you’ll ultimately be able to retrieve your license if it’s been suspended. However, your criminal record is different. A DUI arrest on that won’t disappear.

Why does getting a DUI matter?

There are several reasons why you should avoid a DUI:

• You might hurt yourself or someone else. In many states, DUIs are the leading cause of road fatalities.
• You can spend time in jail and will likely have to perform community service.
• You might lose your license.
• Insurance will increase.
• If you drive for a living, you’ll lose your job. Some employers will fire you even if you don’t drive on the job.
• You might be excluded from other employment opportunities since employers will consider a DUI a sign of irresponsibility.
• Getting a DUI can be embarrassing.

It’s never a good idea to get behind the wheel of your car if you’ve been drinking. The best course of action is to call a cab or get an Uber. Even if you’ve only had a few drinks, you can’t get a DUI if you aren’t driving.

How long does a DUI stay on your record for insurance?

Typically, insurance companies consider the last three to five years when they set your rates. Some companies will look as far back as ten years, though.

A DUI will increase your insurance rates on average by 80%, but the cost could double or even triple.

You could have your coverage dropped after a DUI if you already have insurance. Companies aren’t required to continue insuring you, even if you’ve been a customer for years. As soon as you’re considered too high a liability, you’ll lose your policy.

You need insurance to drive, though, so you’ll be stuck paying high prices for policies with less coverage. Even if your insurance company doesn’t release you, you should shop around for quotes.

Getting a DUI is a severe infraction that will have significant consequences on your insurance, but comparing quotes might save you money.

How do you get a DUI off your record?

When you find yourself wondering how long a DUI remains on your driving record, you might simply have to wait it out.

If you receive a DUI charge, you’ll need to seek legal assistance. The laws surrounding DUI cases are complex, and you won’t have much chance of escaping punishment without an attorney.

However, even if you beat a DUI criminal charge, it will probably still show up on your driving record. There’s not much that you can do to remove a DUI from your driving record in most states. You simply have to wait.

You should still contact a lawyer if you have a DUI charge. A DUI has far-reaching effects on your life, but legal help can make the damage slightly less impactful.

Find the Best Insurance After a DUI

Getting a DUI can be humiliating and stressful. You’ll have legal concerns, potential issues at work, and much worse concerns if someone is hurt. The last thing you want to worry about is your insurance.

If you’re trying to determine how long a DUI stays on your record, you should compare insurance prices. Enter your ZIP code into our free tool if you want to know what quotes might look like for you.

Case Studies: Duration of a DUI on Your Record

Case Study 1: Long-Term Consequences

John, a driver who received a DUI in a state where it stays on record for ten years, experiences the impact of a DUI on his driving history. The DUI remains on his record, affecting his insurance rates and potentially limiting his employment opportunities. This case highlights the long-term consequences of a DUI and the importance of responsible driving behavior.

Case Study 2: Lifetime Record

Lisa, another driver, faces the challenge of having a DUI on her record in a state where it remains indefinitely. With a DUI permanently marked on her driving history, Lisa encounters ongoing difficulties with insurance premiums and job prospects. This case sheds light on the more severe consequences of a DUI that remains on record for a lifetime.

Case Study 3: Insurance Rate Impact

Alex, a driver in a state where a DUI stays on record for five years, experiences the immediate effect on his insurance rates. After receiving a DUI, his insurance premiums double, making it crucial for him to seek more affordable coverage options. This case emphasizes the significant increase in insurance rates following a DUI and the importance of comparing quotes to find suitable insurance after such an incident.