How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record? The Complete Guide

A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) conviction can change your life in ways most people don’t expect. Aside from fines, license suspensions, and possible jail time, a DUI leaves a lasting mark on your record. Many drivers wonder: how long does a DUI stay on your record, and will it ever go away?

The answer isn’t simple because it depends on several factors, including your state laws, whether it’s a misdemeanor or felony, and whether you qualify for expungement. Let’s break down everything you need to know so you can fully understand the impact of a DUI and your options moving forward.

What Is a DUI and Why Does It Stay on Your Record?

A DUI means you were caught driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other substances that impair your ability to drive safelyAlthough DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) is used in some places, the terms DUI and DWI are typically used interchangeably.

A DUI usually gets recorded in two different ways:

• Criminal Record: This is part of your permanent criminal history. Employers, landlords, and government agencies can see it during background checks.

• Driving Record: Managed by your state’s DMV, this record affects your license status and insurance rates.

Because a DUI involves both the court system and the DMV, it tends to follow you longer than other minor driving violations.

For what length of time does a DUI remain on your record?

General Timeline Across the U.S.

In most states, a DUI stays on your driving record for 3 to 10 years. However, in some states, the impact lasts much longer.This “lookback time” is used by law enforcement and insurance companies to calculate penalties for recurring violations.

For example:

• A DUI remains on your driving record for ten years in California.

• New York keeps it for 15 years.

• Florida records a DUI for 75 years.

• Texas treats it as permanent.

This wide range makes it crucial to know your own state’s laws.

State-by-State DUI Record Duration

The following table summarizes the length of DUI records in the main states:

Note: Laws change often, so always confirm with your state’s DMV or a DUI attorney.

What is the length of time a DUI remains on your criminal record?

Your criminal record does not automatically go away over time, unlike your driving record.  A DUI conviction usually stays permanently unless you take steps to remove it.

Misdemeanor vs Felony DUI

• Misdemeanor DUI: Common for first-time offenders. Still permanent unless expunged.

• Felony DUI: Usually for repeat offenders, accidents involving injury, or very high blood alcohol levels. Felonies almost always stay on your record for life.

Background Checks and Employment

Employers often run background checks. Even if a DUI is years old, it can show up and affect your chances of getting jobs in transportation, law enforcement, healthcare, or positions requiring trust and responsibility.

Landlords, schools, and even volunteer organizations may also check criminal history. This is why many people explore expungement or record sealing to lessen the impact.

Can a DUI Be Expunged or Removed?

Expungement Process

Expungement is a legal process where your DUI is erased from your public criminal record. Not all states allow it, but in those that do, requirements usually include:

• First-time offense

• Completion of probation

• No new charges or arrests

• All fines and community service completed

Record Sealing vs Expungement

• Sealing hides the DUI from public view, but law enforcement and courts can still see it.

• The conviction is essentially expunged, as if it had never occurred.

States That Allow Expungement

Some states, like California, Michigan, and Kansas, have pathways to expunge or seal DUI convictions. Others, like Illinois and Ohio, rarely allow it.

Case Study Example: In California, John (a first-time DUI offender) successfully expunged his DUI after completing probation. His conviction no longer appeared on employer background checks, giving him a fresh start.

How a DUI Affects Your Life

A DUI conviction lingers far beyond court fines. It has ripple effects across nearly every part of your life:

Car Insurance Rates

Insurance companies consider DUI drivers “high risk.” Premiums can double or triple for at least 3–5 years. Some insurers may even cancel your policy.

Employment Opportunities

Certain industries like commercial driving, government, healthcare, or security may reject applicants with DUI convictions. Even if you’re otherwise qualified, the conviction can raise red flags.

Travel Restrictions

A DUI can complicate international travel. For example:

• Canada may deny entry to anyone with a DUI unless they apply for “rehabilitation status.”

• Some Asian countries also have restrictions, depending on the severity of the conviction.

Tips to Minimize the Impact of a DUI on Your Record

If you’re dealing with a DUI, you’re not powerless. You can take steps to reduce its long-term consequences:

• Hire a DUI attorney to explore legal options.

• Complete all court-ordered programs quickly.

• Maintain a clean driving record afterward.

• Apply for expungement or record sealing if your state allows it.

• Look around for SR-22 or FR-44 specialized DUI auto insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does a DUI ever go away on its own?
On your driving record, yes it may fall off after a set time depending on your state. On your criminal record, no it usually stays unless expunged.

Can employers see my DUI after expungement?
No, once expunged, it won’t appear on most employer background checks.

How long will insurance companies consider my DUI?
Most companies factor it into your rates for 3 .5 years, but some may count it longer.

Is a DUI always a felony?
No, most first-time DUIs are misdemeanors. It becomes a felony if there are injuries, fatalities, or multiple offenses.

Conclusion: How Long a DUI Stays on Your Record Depends on Many Factors

What is the length of time a DUI remains on your record?  On your driving record, anywhere from 3 years to life, depending on your state. On your criminal record, it usually stays forever unless you qualify for expungement.

A DUI isn’t just a one-time mistake it can follow you for years, affecting your insurance, job opportunities, and even travel. The good news is that with the right steps legal help, expungement, and a commitment to safe driving you can minimize its impact and move forward with a cleaner record.