Data from 2016 shows that 10,497 people were killed in drunk driving incidents in the United States. On average, about 29 people in the country die in crashes involving alcohol-impaired driving. That equates to one drunk-driving-related death every 50 minutes.
More recent data from 2023 shows that 12,429 people died in drunk driving related accidents, indicating that despite increased awareness and enforcement, impaired driving remains a critical public safety issue.
The sheer danger and human cost of drunk driving has led to drastic responses from state and federal governments. This includes enforcement of 0.08 BAC legal limits, the use of car breathalyzers, and growing penalties to punish impaired drivers and discourage drivers from ever driving drunk in the first place.
As money makes the world go ’round, the most common punishments for driving under the influence involve fines, fees, and other monetary penalties. Let’s take a look at how much a DUI could cost.
DUI Cost Overview: What to Expect
The financial impact of a DUI conviction extends far beyond the initial fine. According to recent analysis, the total cost of a DUI can range from $6,500 to over $20,000 for a first offense, with costs varying significantly by state. The national average sits around $10,000 to $15,000, but this figure can be misleading as it doesn’t account for long-term expenses that can persist for years after your conviction.
DUI Penalty Costs
You may be wondering exactly what happens when you get a dui. The answer can vary from person to person and from state to start. From court and legal fees to penalty fines, DUI costs can easily add up, leading to some exorbitant costs. Data suggests that the national average cost of a DUI is about $10,000. The exact fines and fees for a DUI can vary widely based on state laws, the severity of your crime, and any previous DUI convictions on your record.
Most Expensive States for DUI Costs
Recent research has identified the states where a DUI will cost you the most:
| State | Total Cost | Primary Cost Drivers |
|---|---|---|
| Indiana | $6,614 | Highest fines ($5,000) |
| Illinois | $4,467 | High fines ($2,500) + insurance increases |
| Delaware | $3,562 | Significant insurance premium increases |
| California | $3,505 | Highest insurance increases ($2,380/year) |
| South Dakota | $3,504 | High fines ($2,000) |
These figures represent the immediate costs and first-year insurance increases, but don’t include long-term financial impacts that can extend for 3-5 years or more.
The costs the go into a DUI can include:
Bail/Bond
Most DUI laws require some time spent in prison. While some states allow you to be released on your own recognizance, others may require you to post bail or bond, which is essentially cash paid to the courts in exchange for your release. On average, bail for a DUI costs about $500. In some jurisdictions, bail could be as low as $100, while others may require upwards of $2,500.
Lawyer
The cost for a DUI attorney or lawyer varies, but even for the simplest cases, you can expect to pay at least $1,000. However, attorney fees can range from $1,500 to $10,000 depending on the complexity of your case and whether it goes to trial. You can potentially mitigate your attorney’s bill if you qualify for diversion programs. These programs are usually only available to first-time offenders, but they allow you to essentially avoid conviction charges as long as you take part in some sort of rehabilitation program, like a drug and alcohol education class or community service. However, some states will require a treatment program regardless. Lawyer costs can be exponentially more if your case goes to trial.
Court and Legal Fees
Your attorney’s bill does not include all the fees required by the court for filing paperwork and all the mandatory court appearances. Courts can incur fees of $200 to $2,000.
Penalty Fines
For a first-time DUI offender, your fines can range from $390 to $1,000. However, fines vary dramatically by state, with some states like Indiana imposing fines as high as $5,000 for a first offense. Drivers with a previous conviction record can expect fines that are three times that amount.
Towing and Impoundment
If you have been arrested for driving under the influence, your car can’t just be left at the side of the road. After your arrest, the officer will contact a tow truck and have your car impounded. On average, that will cost about $215. Impoundment fees can accumulate daily, so the longer your vehicle remains impounded, the higher these costs become.
Diversion Program
Although diversion programs can help you avoid some fees and a mark on your record, they don’t come for free. If you need to enroll in a drug and alcohol class or undergo evaluation and treatment, you have to pay for it all out of your own pocket. The cost of diversion programs can vary. You can expect to pay at least $300. More comprehensive programs can cost $1,000 or more, especially if they include residential treatment components.
Ignition Interlock Device Fees
Many states have adopted interlock device laws requiring the installation of an ignition interlock device, even for first offenses. Ignition interlock devices require an initial installation fee of about $150 on average, along with a monthly fee of $50 for maintenance, calibration, and reporting. At the end of the IID period, you also have to pay a removal fee. The total cost for ignition interlock devices typically ranges from $1,200 to $3,000 depending on the length of your required program.
License Reinstatement Fee
Every DUI conviction usually involves a license suspension or revocation. At the end of your suspension period, the court doesn’t simply hand you back your license. You are required to pay a license reinstatement fee and potentially take a driver’s test again. This reinstatement fee varies from state to state. In California, the fee is $125, while Minnesota has a fee of $680 to reissue a license after an alcohol-related suspension.
Lost Wages
You will likely have to spend some time in jail and in court, and you may have trouble getting to work if your license has been suspended. This inevitably means you’ll spend less time at work, which equates to lost wages. Beyond immediate lost wages from court appearances and jail time, many people face long-term employment consequences, including job loss or difficulty finding new employment due to background checks.
Car Insurance
After a DUI, you can expect a huge jump in your car insurance rates that will likely stay high for a few years even after you have fulfilled any court penalties and programs. You can expect rates to double after a DUI. The average annual insurance increase is $1,178, but this can be much higher in certain states. In California, for example, insurance premiums can increase by $2,380 per year. You may also be required to file an SR-22 form, which essentially certifies that you have the minimum amount of liability insurance. Filing these forms naturally costs a fee.
Hidden and Long-Term DUI Costs
Beyond the immediate penalties, DUI convictions carry hidden costs that can impact your finances for years:
Employment Impact
Many employers conduct background checks, and a DUI conviction can limit job opportunities, particularly in positions requiring driving or security clearances. Some professions may require disclosure of criminal convictions, potentially affecting career advancement.
Professional License Consequences
Certain professional licenses (medical, legal, financial, education) may be suspended or revoked following a DUI conviction, resulting in significant income loss.
Travel Restrictions
A DUI conviction can affect your ability to travel internationally, particularly to Canada, which may deny entry to individuals with DUI convictions.
Increased Life Insurance Premiums
Insurance companies may view DUI convictions as high-risk behavior, potentially increasing life insurance premiums or affecting coverage eligibility.
First Offense vs. Repeat Offense Costs
The financial impact of DUI convictions escalates significantly with repeat offenses:
First Offense DUI Costs
- Average total cost: $10,000-$15,000
- Fines: $390-$5,000 (varies by state)
- License suspension: 90 days to 1 year
- Possible jail time: Up to 6 months
Second Offense DUI Costs
- Average total cost: $15,000-$25,000
- Fines: Often double first offense amounts
- License suspension: 1-2 years
- Mandatory jail time in most states
- Required ignition interlock device installation
Third Offense and Beyond
- Often classified as felony charges
- Costs can exceed $30,000
- Lengthy prison sentences
- Permanent license revocation in some states
- Felony conviction consequences affecting employment, housing, and civil rights
Payment Plans and Financial Assistance
Many courts and service providers offer payment plans to help manage DUI-related costs:
Court-Ordered Payment Plans
Most courts allow defendants to pay fines and fees in installments, though interest and administrative fees may apply.
Ignition Interlock Payment Options
Many IID providers, including Low Cost Interlock, offer flexible payment plans to make device installation and monitoring more affordable.
Public Defender Services
If you cannot afford an attorney, you may qualify for a public defender, though you may still be required to pay court costs and other fees.
Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Costs
How much does a DUI cost on average?
The national average cost of a DUI ranges from $10,000 to $15,000 for a first offense, including fines, legal fees, insurance increases, and other associated costs.
Which state has the highest DUI costs?
Indiana currently has the highest total DUI costs at approximately $6,614, primarily due to their maximum fine of $5,000 for first-time offenders.
How long do increased insurance rates last after a DUI?
Insurance rate increases typically last 3-5 years, though this varies by insurance company and state regulations.
Can I get a payment plan for DUI costs?
Yes, most courts offer payment plans for fines and fees. Additionally, many service providers like ignition interlock companies offer financing options.
Do DUI costs vary by BAC level?
Yes, many states impose higher fines and penalties for higher BAC levels, typically with enhanced penalties for BAC levels of 0.15% or higher.
What happens if I can’t pay DUI fines?
Failure to pay court-ordered fines can result in additional penalties, including extended license suspension, warrant issuance, or additional jail time.
As you can see, costs for committing a DUI can quickly add up. None of this even includes the potential repairs your car may need if your DUI involved a crash. Understanding what is a DUI and its full consequences is crucial for making informed decisions. The best way to avoid paying all these costs is to avoid committing a DUI in the first place. Learn more about the 5 dangers of drinking and driving to understand why planning ahead is so important. Whether you have a designated driver or a favorite cab company, always plan ahead if you think you’ll be drinking.
Sources:
- https://www.cdc.gov/motorvehiclesafety/impaired_driving/impaired-drv_factsheet.html
- http://onedui.com/dui-costs/
- https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/insurance/cost-of-a-dui/
- https://www.lawyers.com/legal-info/criminal/dui-dwi/will-i-have-to-pay-bail-for-a-dui-arrest.html
- https://www.esurance.com/info/car/the-true-cost-of-a-dui
- https://dui.drivinglaws.org/interlock.php