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How long does a drunk driving charge stay on your criminal record?

On Behalf of | Jul 23, 2024 | Criminal Defense, DUI Defense

The repercussions of a drunk driving charge can have a lasting impact on your life. Driving under the influence (DUI) can impact your employment opportunities, insurance rates and personal reputation. With so many challenges related to a criminal record, people often wonder how long these charges will stay on their record.

How long will a DUI be on your record?

In Florida, a DUI conviction is not just a temporary mark on your driving record; it has very long-term implications. A DUI conviction will remain on your driving record for 75 years, essentially making it a lifelong entry for most people.

The longevity of the record can have various consequences. For instance, it can affect your insurance premiums, where insurers may charge higher rates due to the perceived risk associated with insuring someone with a DUI conviction. Moreover, the conviction can impact job prospects, especially for positions that require driving as a core component of the job duties.

Can you get a DUI charge removed from your record?

When it comes to expunging or sealing DUI records, the state of Florida has specific regulations that limit these options for DUI convictions. Under Florida law, a DUI conviction cannot be expunged or sealed. This rule applies regardless of the circumstances surrounding the case, which means that once the court finds you guilty, the DUI will remain on your record for 75 years.

However, if the DUI charge did not lead to a conviction you might have the opportunity to get the record sealed or expunged.  This might be an option if the prosecution dropped the charges against you, the judge dismissed the case or you were acquitted. Sealing a record essentially makes it inaccessible to the general public, although certain government entities will still be able to see it. Expungement goes a step further by removing the record as if the incident never occurred, although, like sealing, certain exceptions apply for government access.

Because of the impact that a drunk driving charge can have on your life, it is important to build a strong DUI defense when you face charges. The right legal strategy can protect you from the long-lasting impact of a conviction.