DUI Cost Calculator
Total lifetime cost of a DUI — legal fees, fines, insurance hikes, and more.
DUI Cost Calculator — Lifetime Cost in Your State
A DUI in the United States costs an average of $10,000–$25,000 over the next 5 years — not counting jail time, license loss, or the permanent record. This calculator estimates the total damage by state and offense level (first, second, or third DUI).
How to use this tool
- 1
Pick your state and offense level
Costs scale dramatically with priors.
- 2
See lifetime cost breakdown
Bail, legal, court, DMV, insurance hikes, lost wages.
Pro tips
- An Uber/Lyft ride home costs $20. A DUI costs $15,000+. Always plan a ride.
- First-time DUI may qualify for diversion programs — talk to a defense attorney immediately.
- SR-22 high-risk insurance applies for 3+ years after a DUI — adds $2,000+/year to premiums.
Frequently asked questions
Will a DUI show on my background check?
Yes — typically forever in your driving record, and most criminal background checks. Some states allow expungement after a waiting period.
Can I get a CDL with a DUI?
First DUI usually disqualifies a CDL for 1 year. Second DUI = lifetime CDL ban.
Should I plead guilty?
Never without consulting a DUI defense attorney first — there may be procedural defenses you don't know about.
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