What Is the Actual Cost of a DUI?

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense, and the penalties can have a major impact on your finances. Between fines, attorney fees, alcohol education fees, Ignition Interlock Device (IID) costs, and other expenditures, your total costs can easily run into the thousands of dollars.

So, how much does a DUI cost? While laws vary a lot and there’s no one-size answer for the average cost of a DUI, we’ll examine some common costs for getting a DUI. 

Breaking Down the Financial Costs of a DUI

Wondering how much drunk driving costs? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, even a first-time DUI can cost you $10,000 or more in fines and legal fees. Let’s take a closer look at where some of those costs will likely come from.

DUI Fines and Penalties

The average cost of a first DUI varies widely by state, as well as by the circumstances of your DUI. Some states impose a mandatory minimum fine for drivers charged with DUI, such as:

• Florida: $500 minimum fine for first DUI
• Oregon: $1,000 minimum fine for first DUI
• Colorado: $600 minimum fine for first DUI
• New York: $500 minimum fine for first DWI

Many states impose higher fines if it’s not your first DUI, or if there were aggravating factors such as a collision or a minor riding in the vehicle. In addition to fines, you’ll often be responsible for court costs, which can significantly increase your total payment. 

Attorney Fees

Many people choose to hire an attorney to help them navigate their DUI and represent them in court. However, the cost of hiring an attorney can be significant, so be aware of the potential financial trade-offs that you might have to consider. 

Increased Auto Insurance Rates

For many drivers, higher auto insurance rates are another consequence of a DUI. Insurance companies will often raise your rates after you’re convicted of DUI. If you have multiple DUIs or other unsafe driving infractions, your insurance company might cancel your coverage altogether. 

In many US states, drivers who get a DUI will also have to obtain an SR-22 insurance certificate before they can return to the road. This document verifies that the driver carries a certain amount of required auto insurance coverage, which can vary according to your requirements. 

Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Costs

Installing an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on any vehicles you operate is another common requirement for drivers who get a DUI. An IID prevents your vehicle’s ignition from starting until you’ve provided a breath sample that meets the requirements set by your DUI program. You can learn more about how an IID works here.

You’ll be responsible for paying all of the costs for an Ignition Interlock Device, including the monthly lease, installation charges, and any other applicable fees. If paying for an IID isn’t financially feasible for you, talk to your attorney about applying for any financial assistance programs that your state might offer. 

See Smart Start’s Affordable Pricing on Interlock Devices Near You!

Alcohol Education and Treatment Programs

You might also be required to attend alcohol education and treatment programs. Like an IID, you’ll have to pay for these using your own resources. Usually, the education and/or treatment programs also need to be offered through a vendor approved by the state. Thus, make sure to check your state’s DUI website to find treatment resources that meet your program requirements — or ask your attorney for help. 

License Suspension and Reinstatement Fees

If your license is suspended as a result of your DUI, you’ll often have to pay a fee to the state when you apply to have your license reinstated. Be sure to carefully check your state’s payment rules, including accepted payment methods. 

The Indirect Costs of a DUI

Getting a DUI can also come with considerable indirect costs, such as:

• Career Consequences: Depending on your job, you might face consequences from your employer after getting a DUI. For example, you might no longer be allowed to operate company vehicles, or you might be prohibited from working as a rideshare driver. 
• Professional License Suspension: If you hold certain types of professional license, such as a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or a medical license, getting a DUI could result in your license being suspended or revoked.
• Commuting Challenges: Getting to work can become a serious challenge if your DUI sentence prohibits you from driving. You might have to rely on taxis and rideshares, use public transportation, or get rides from friends and family. 

Avoiding the High Costs of a DUI

The smartest way to avoid a DUI is to plan out your transportation in advance any time you’ll be drinking alcohol. You might take advantage of any of the following transport methods:

• Riding with a sober friend
• Calling a rideshare or taxi
• Taking public transportation
• Walking, if it’s feasible

Whatever the cost of arranging alternative transportation is, it’s definitely much lower than what a DUI will cost you — legally, financially, emotionally, and socially.

When you’re facing the costs of a DUI, Smart Start can help you get the keys to a new chapter in your life. Get in touch with our Program Advisors now for a free quote on an Ignition Interlock Device near you.