What Are the Penalties for Drunk Driving?

Drunk driving or DUI is a serious criminal offense. Once you are charged with DUI, the criminal process will begin with an arraignment. And the trial will end with a sentencing if you are found guilty of the charges. The penalties or punishments for DUI vary depending on the type of offense.

 

First offense

If it is your first offense, you will pay a fine of $600 at the very least. And you will be prohibited from driving for one to three years.

 

Second offense

For your second offense, minimum punishment includes at least 14 days in prison and a driving prohibition for two to five years.

 

Third and subsequent offense

The minimum punishment for your third and subsequent DUI offenses consist of at least 90 days in prison and driving prohibition for at least three years up to a lifetime.

 

Remember that these are minimum punishments only. The sentencing judge will decide whether your punishment must be less or more severe based on certain factors.