How Long Does a DUI Stay On Your Record?
Being charged with a DUI (driving under the influence) in Washington can have long-lasting repercussions, impacting your life in more ways than one. If you have been charged, you may be wondering how long a DUI stays on your record. There is a distinction between a criminal record kept by the courts, and a driving record kept by DOL. A DUI conviction stays on your criminal record permanently, what is disclosed by DOL from your driving record depends upon timing, and who is asking. Understanding these implications is crucial for managing the long-term consequences of a DUI. With so much at stake, having an experienced DUI attorney by your side can make all the difference in navigating the legal system and minimizing the impact on your future.
On Your Driving Record
In Washington State, a DUI conviction is a lifelong mark on your driving record. According to the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL), once a DUI conviction is on your record, it remains visible for 99 years. Unlike some other offenses, it can’t be expunged, vacated, or sealed, meaning it will always be accessible. This conviction not only impacts your driving record but can also appear on your criminal record and employment background checks, potentially affecting job opportunities if a prospective employer conducts a criminal background check.
Beyond DUI convictions, other offenses and incidents can also leave lasting marks on your Washington driving record. For example, a "failure to appear" (FTA) stays on your record until it is resolved or for 10 years from the date the court informs the Department of Licensing, whichever is sooner.
Long-Term DUI Consequences
Understanding the long-term consequences of a DUI is essential. Here are some of the impacts you might face:
- Increased Insurance Rates: As mentioned, a DUI on your driving record can result in higher car insurance premiums. Some insurers might even refuse to cover you.
- Employment Challenges: Many employers conduct background checks, and a DUI can be a red flag. Jobs that require driving or a clean record may become inaccessible.
- Legal Penalties: Depending on whether it’s your first offense or a subsequent one, a conviction for DUI results in penalties including jail, fines, electronic home monitoring (and mandatory alcohol education programs or treatment
- License Suspension: A DUI conviction will lead to your driver's license being suspended, making it difficult to commute to work or manage daily activities.
DUI Consequences in Washington
Washington has strict DUI laws, and the consequences of a DUI can be severe. Below are some specific consequences you might face in Washington. Bear in mind that the specific penalties for a DUI conviction depend upon the facts and circumstances of your case.
- First Offense:
- Jail time from one to 364 days
- Fines ranging from $350 to $5,000
- License suspension for 90 days to two years
- Mandatory alcohol/drug assessment and treatment
- Ignition interlock for at least one year
- Second Offense:
- Jail time from 30 days to one year
- Fines from $500 to $5,000
- License suspension for two years or more
- Installation of an ignition interlock device from one to five years
- Third Offense:
- Jail time from 90 days to one year
- Fines from $1,000 to $5,000
- License suspension for three years
- Extended requirement of an ignition interlock device
How Long Does a DUI Last on Your Record?
While the DUI remains on your criminal record indefinitely, the impact on your daily life can diminish over time. While the conviction will stay on your driving and criminal records, its impact on things like employment and car insurance rates may lessen, especially if you keep a clean record thereafter.
Many employers, for example, care most about recent history. There are some jobs (such as those involving public safety or driving) where a criminal record may prohibit a candidate from employment. As the years go by, however, many employers will consider a past DUI conviction less relevant.
Car insurance is another area that is immediately impacted by DUI, with insurance companies often raising rates or the Department of Licensing requiring you to file an SR-22 certificate to prove your financial responsibility. In most cases, this certificate is required for three years from the date you’re eligible to reinstate your license.
While a DUI conviction does leave a lasting mark on your record in Washington state, it doesn’t have to define your future. Keeping your record clear can allow you to reduce its impact over time, letting you move forward with more freedom.
Why You Should Trust Washington Attorney Jon Scott Fox
Hiring an expert DUI attorney can make a tremendous difference in how your case is handled and its outcome. Here’s why our team is the most skilled to take on your DUI case:
Save Time and Money
Many people hesitate to hire a DUI attorney due to cost concerns. However, having our legal counsel can save you time and money. We know how to navigate the legal system efficiently and can potentially save you money on legal fees and insurance premiums. We work tirelessly to get the charges reduced or dropped entirely, which can help avoid an increase in your insurance rates.
Protect Your Career and Livelihood
A DUI conviction can jeopardize your employment, reputation, and standing in your community.
You may face jail time and lose wages while out of work. Finding a new job with a DUI on your record can also be challenging. With over 35 years of experience, Jon Fox is widely recognized as one of the state’s top DUI attorneys, helping countless people from all walks of life to preserve their livelihood and reputation.
Investigate and Preserve Evidence
We know what it takes to investigate your case to build the strongest defense. We begin by gathering the necessary evidence and, if needed, making a motion to the court to suppress evidence the prosecution plans to use against you. We assess the weight of the evidence and develop a defense strategy accordingly.
Negotiate a Lighter Sentence
Our team understands the laws and regulations regarding DUI cases and works tirelessly to achieve a lighter sentence. We negotiate with the prosecution for a reduced charge or the minimum possible penalty. In Washington, this can include negotiating for house arrest instead of jail.
Reinstate Your Driver’s License
If your license was suspended or revoked due to a DUI, it could negatively impact your quality of life, removing your ability to get to work, school, or care for your family’s needs. We are dedicated and passionate about helping you get your license reinstated and avoiding potential suspension in the first place.
Getting Expert Legal Help Is Crucial
It’s never wise to attempt to handle your DUI case alone. Even if it’s your first DUI, you’re more likely to get a successful outcome with a skilled legal advocate. Since 1985, we’ve negotiated with the prosecution, helping reduce thousands of DUI charges to lesser offenses, such as reckless driving. If it’s your second offense, having legal representation is even more critical to avoid harsher penalties.
Contact An Experienced Washington DUI Attorney
If you’re wondering how long a DUI stays on your record or need representation, it’s best to speak with an expert for help. Providing skillful counsel and aggressive advocacy, the Fox Law Firm PLLC has been defending the rights of Washington drivers with compassion and expertise for decades.
Contact Jon Fox for a complimentary consultation by calling (425) 584-6649 today.
