Life After a DUI in Vegas

Being arrested for a DUI in Las Vegas is a frightening experience. In the immediate aftermath of your arrest, you may wonder what life after a DUI in Vegas will look like.

It’s true that a DUI arrest or conviction has consequences. Familiarizing yourself with them can help you understand what to expect in the weeks, months, and even years following your arrest.

Don’t assume you’ve ruined your life forever. Even if you are convicted, you can lead a productive life after a DUI charge. A strong defense can also potentially minimize the consequences of a DUI conviction.

The Differences Between a DUI Arrest and a DUI Conviction in Las Vegas

A DUI conviction in Las Vegas may result in criminal consequences. However, DUI arrests in Las Vegas can result in consequences even before a conviction. 

Factors such as your age can impact what those consequences may be. For example, under Nevada law, the Department of Motor Vehicles may immediately suspend your license if you’re under 21 years of age and a BAC test shows you were driving with a BAC of 0.02 or more. Such results indicate you were breaking two laws by driving while intoxicated and consuming alcohol below the legal age.

That said, if you’re wondering, “Will a DUI ruin your life?” it’s essential to remember that an arrest is not a conviction. Focusing on your defense can help you minimize the consequences of an arrest. 

Is My Life Over After a DUI?

No. It is entirely possible to move on from DUI convictions. 

That’s not to say the effects of a drunk driving conviction on your life are minor. The extent to which a DUI affects your life will depend on how strong your defense is, whether you are convicted of a DUI, and whether you have prior DUI convictions. 

It’s best to be proactive now. Rather than stewing over how a DUI can ruin your life, focus on your defense strategy by hiring an experienced and aggressive DUI attorney.

Short-Term DUI Consequences

The following are potential criminal consequences you might face if you’re convicted of DUI offenses in Nevada:

• Two days to six months in jail (or up to 96 hours of community service)
• A minimum fine of $400 and a maximum fine of $1,000
• $60 chemical test fee
• Requirement to participate in DUI school or substance abuse treatment
• The requirement to participate in a victim impact panel
• Vehicle impoundment

A DUI conviction can also affect your driving privileges. Consequences of a DUI conviction impacting your driving privileges include:

• License revocation or a requirement to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle
• $121 fee to reinstate driving privileges
• $35 civil penalty for victim compensation
• $42.25 driver’s license fee and a $26 testing fee
• The requirement to have an SR-22 Certificate of Liability Insurance for three years

In addition, you may have to undergo DMV tests (such as vision, knowledge, and skills tests) to regain driving privileges. These tests can add to the cost of DUI charges.

Long-Term DUI Consequences

The potential long-term consequences of a DUI conviction in Vegas can depend on various factors. Having a DUI in your criminal history can impact your ability to perform your job if you drive for a living, could impair your ability to get another job, and if you lose your license, can make it challenging to get around. 

The following are just a few common examples of ways a DUI conviction can affect your life in the long term:

• Along with potentially affecting employment opportunities, a DUI conviction could further complicate your financial situation by resulting in high insurance costs.
• A DUI conviction could negatively impact your eligibility for college scholarships.
• If you are convicted of a DUI, you may be required to drive with an ignition interlock device. You might have to explain this to anyone who rides in your vehicle.

Will a DUI Show Up on a Background Check?

Yes, a DUI conviction will show up on a background check in Las Vegas. Potential employers, landlords, and other such parties may learn about it when researching your history. A DUI conviction could impact your ability to secure employment or find a place to live.

You can take steps to address this issue. You can petition the court to seal your criminal record. In the case of a first or second misdemeanor DUI, you can begin the process of sealing your records seven years after the case ends.

Will a DUI/DWI Offense Affect My Car Insurance?

A DUI can significantly impact your car insurance. According to Forbes, on average, a DUI can raise a driver’s auto insurance rates by 70 percent.

You must also have an SR-22 insurance document on file with the DMV for three years following a DUI conviction in Vegas. Such a document is an “add-on” for a high-risk insurance policy.

Will I Have to Attend Counseling After a DUI Arrest?

You may have to participate in an eight-hour DUI school after a DUI conviction in Las Vegas. The purpose of DUI school is to educate you on the dangers of driving while intoxicated so that you don’t make the same error again.

The Nevada DMV offers a list of DUI schools in various locations throughout the state. Often, a court will allow someone convicted of a DUI to participate in an online class if they cannot complete an in-person class. 

Strive to participate in DUI school by the deadline. If you are unable to do so, let the court know. They may grant an extension.

You may also have to undergo substance abuse counseling. Substance abuse treatment may be necessary in lieu of DUI school.

How Our Experienced Las Vegas DUI Defense Lawyers Can Help

One of the best ways to achieve some peace of mind after a DUI arrest in Vegas is to enlist the help of a defense attorney. At Adras & Altig, Attorneys at Law, you’ll find a Las Vegas DUI defense lawyer who cares about your future. Learn more about what we can do for you by contacting us online today for a free case evaluation.

This article was previously published in February 2020 and updated for relevance in March 2024.