How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in California?

Having a DUI can impact your life in unexpected ways. As long as it stays on your record, you’ll have to deal with hurdles that can include travel restrictions, economic struggles, and even social stigma.

In California, your DUI conviction will remain on your driving record for ten years starting on the date of your arrest.¹ There are ways to have your criminal record cleared sooner, but it depends on the unique circumstances of your DUI case and the proceedings following it.

Understanding DUI Records: The Details of DUI Records

You have two types of records relevant to your DUI charge: your criminal record, and your driving record:

• Driving record – This record starts at the date of your arrest and lasts ten years. There is no way to remove a DUI from your driving record early. Auto insurance companies can also use this information to modify insurance policies.
• Criminal record – A DUI charge can remain on your criminal record indefinitely if you don’t get it expunged. However, this can depend on a number of factors such as prior criminal offenses and whether the DUI is a felony in California or misdemeanor.

Though your criminal record may have a more significant daily impact, both of these records can affect your life.

Impact on Your Life: Dow a DUI Record Can Affect You

How long does DUI stay on record in California? Long enough to make waves. Ten years is a long time, and you could find yourself dealing with economic, social, and criminal ramifications through the whole of it.

#1 Background Checks

If this is your first criminal offense, a DUI on most background checks shows up as a generic misdemeanor or felony (depending on what yours is classified as). Most background checks don’t show many further details than that.

As background checks are required for a multitude of things, from buying a new car to securing a new house, this can present challenges where you wouldn’t expect them.

A California DUI arrest on your background check can:

• Make it harder for you to find a job or housing
• Prevent you from getting professional licenses in law, medicine, or more
• Reduce your chances of getting scholastic financial aid or scholarships

#2 Social Stigma

Many people with a DUI arrest on record also witness their experiences with social stigma. DUI crimes are viewed in a strongly negative light by many, which can lead to the dissolution of friendships and relationships, or estrangement from family and community.

#3 Financial and Travel Limitations

Having a DUI can put you in a major financial bind. Between the fines, fees, and court cases, you could stand to lose tens of thousands of dollars.

On top of that, your ability to travel freely may be significantly diminished. If you’re living with driver’s license restrictions, you won’t be able to drive where you want. If you’re under probation, you’ll have to check with your officer before going anywhere.

Some countries, like Canada, may not allow entrance into the country at all with a DUI present on your record.

DUI Expungement: What’s The Process?

It’s possible, in some cases, to get your criminal record expunged. Expungement is the process by which your criminal record is sealed or destroyed, thus removing it from the public’s eye.²

Expunging a record can allow you to:

• Apply to jobs and housing freely
• Travel freely, even to countries with limits on DUI travelers
• Apply for professional licenses

In California, you can expunge a DUI case after your probationary period is up.³ To qualify for expungement, you must:

• Have met all requirements during the probationary period, such as paying fines or attending DUI classes
• Petition to a judge for eligibility
• Pay fees associated with the petition and expungement process

Note that even after a DUI expungement, it still counts as a prior offense. If you get another DUI conviction in the ten years following your first, that conviction will count as your second DUI offense, and you’ll face penalties accordingly.

How An Interlock Can Help

Interlock Ignition Devices (IIDs) are installed in vehicles to prevent drivers on probation from hitting the road under the influence.⁴ They work as a car breathalyzer test, preventing your car from starting if any alcohol is detected on your breath. They help ensure that you, or any other drivers of the vehicle, are safe to drive.

California is currently launching an initiative that requires IIDs for all DUI drivers with multiple offenses, or involved in injury-causing incidents. By successfully completing a probationary period with an IID, you may be able to regain your driver’s license in the state of California.

Gain Support from Smart Start

So, how long do DUIs stay on your record in California? For at least ten years, your records will be impacted by a DUI—but you don’t have to let it dictate your life. By knowing what to do after getting a DUI in California and gaining support from an attorney and other professionals, you can move on from a DUI before you know it.

If an IID becomes a viable way to increase your progress and gain good graces after your DUI, look no further than Smart Start.

At Smart Start, we’re here to make sure your Ignition Interlock Device California installation, maintenance, and usage are as easy and seamless as possible. With our discreet design, easy-to-use interface, and quick installation, you’ll be back to normal in no time.

Sources:

1. Forbes. How Long Does A DUI Stay On Your Record? https://www.forbes.com/advisor/legal/dui/how-long-does-dui-stay-on-record/
2. Legal Information Institute. Expunge. https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/expunge
3. Daily Breeze. Can I expunge a DUI from my record? Ask the lawyer. https://www.dailybreeze.com/2023/07/18/can-i-expunge-a-dui-from-my-record-ask-the-lawyer/
4. The State of California DMV. Ignition Interlock Devices. https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-education-and-safety/educational-materials/fast-facts/ignition-interlock-devices-ffdl-31/