What tips should I keep in mind?

A DUI attorney can often negotiate reduced charges or penalties. Refusing a breathalyzer triggers automatic license suspension in most states. DUI stays on your record for 5-10 years (permanently in some states).

DUI Fine Calculator

Estimate the total cost of a DUI/DWI conviction including fines, court fees, insurance increases, classes, and license reinstatement.

DUI Offense Number(Is this your 1st, 2nd, or 3rd+ DUI?)

Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)(Your BAC at time of arrest)

Accident Involved?(Was there a collision?)

Current Annual Insurance Premium ($)(Your current yearly auto insurance cost)

Hire a DUI Attorney?(Private attorney vs. public defender)

Results

Visualization

How It Works

A DUI conviction costs far more than just the fine. Total expenses include court fines, fees, mandatory classes, license reinstatement, ignition interlock devices, attorney fees, and dramatically increased insurance premiums (SR-22) for 3-5 years. A first offense typically costs $10,000-$15,000 total.

The Formula

Total DUI Cost = Fines + Court Fees + Classes + Attorney + Interlock + Insurance Increase (3yr) + Reinstatement

Variables

Base Fine — Court-imposed fine ranging from $1,000 (1st) to $5,000+ (3rd)
Insurance Impact — SR-22 requirement increases premiums 80-150% for 3+ years
Interlock — Breathalyzer device on vehicle ($150 install + $80/month)

Example

First offense, 0.10 BAC, no accident, with attorney: $1,000 fine + $500 fees + $500 classes + $3,000 attorney + $150 reinstatement + $4,320 insurance (3yr) = $9,470 total.

Tips

A DUI attorney can often negotiate reduced charges or penalties.
Refusing a breathalyzer triggers automatic license suspension in most states.
DUI stays on your record for 5-10 years (permanently in some states).
Insurance rate increases last at least 3 years with SR-22 filing.
Rideshare and taxis are vastly cheaper than a DUI -- plan ahead.