DUI Cost Calculator
Estimate the total cost of a DUI, including fines, attorney fees, and insurance increases.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a DUI cost?+
A first-offense DUI typically costs $10,000-$25,000 or more (including fines, court costs, insurance increases, IID fees, DUI school, attorney fees, towing, and bail). Insurance increases alone average $5,000-$15,000 over 3-5 years.
How much does car insurance increase after a DUI?+
Nationwide, insurance rates increase by about 88% on average after a DUI. North Carolina sees the largest increases at 300-400%+. California, Georgia, Hawaii, and Michigan increase 100-130%. Pennsylvania is the lowest at 30-50%. Increases typically last 3-5 years and can add $5,000-$25,000 or more 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 a trial. Studies show that represented defendants get better outcomes in 70-80% of cases.
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. Others range from 5 years (Alabama, Mississippi, Missouri) to 15 years (DC, Nebraska). Most states use a 10-year lookback period.
What is an ignition interlock device (IID)?+
An IID is a breathalyzer wired to your vehicle's ignition. You must blow into it and register below a set BAC (usually 0.02-0.04) to start the car. Random retests are also required while driving. Cost: roughly $70-$150/month to rent, plus a $100-$200 installation fee. 34 states + DC require IIDs for all first-time DUI convictions.
What is SR-22 insurance?+
SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility that your insurer files with the DMV proving you carry the minimum required coverage. It is not insurance — it is 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. Every other state uses 0.08. For reference, a 180-pound man could reach 0.05 after 2 drinks in one hour.
Is a first-offense 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, an extremely high BAC, or multiple priors. Oklahoma's SB 54 (effective November 2025) makes certain first-offense DUIs felonies. Second or third DUIs are felonies in many states.