How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record?
"How long does a DUI stay on your record?" doesn't have one answer, because a DUI touches three separate records — criminal, driving, and insurance — and each keeps it for a different length of time. Here's how each one generally works.
Your criminal record
A DUI conviction typically stays on your criminal record permanently unless your state allows it to be expunged or sealed. Whether expungement is possible, and after how long, is set entirely by state law.
Your driving record and the 'lookback period'
On your driving record, a DUI stays for a set number of years and, importantly, defines the 'lookback' (or 'washout') period — the window during which a new DUI counts as a repeat offense with harsher penalties. Lookback periods vary by state; your state's page lists the exact number of years it uses.
Your insurance
Auto insurers generally look back a few years (commonly three to five) when pricing your policy, and a DUI in that window can raise your premium sharply or lead to non-renewal. Many states also require an SR-22 filing for a period after a DUI.
Why the lookback matters most
The lookback period is the number that changes your exposure the most: a second DUI inside it is punished far more harshly than one after it expires. Because it's state-specific, check your state's page to see how many years back your state counts prior offenses.
Find your state’s penalties
Fines, jail, license suspension, and interlock rules are all set state by state — the general rules above only get you so far.
Or try the penalty estimator to filter by offense number and BAC.
Frequently asked questions
Does a DUI ever come off your record?
On your driving record it typically ages off after a set number of years, though it may still be counted for lookback purposes. On your criminal record a DUI conviction is usually permanent unless your state permits expungement or sealing.
What is a DUI lookback period?
The lookback (or washout) period is the number of years during which a prior DUI counts as a 'prior' for enhancing the penalties on a new one. If you get another DUI within that window, it's treated as a repeat offense. The length varies by state — see your state's page.
How long does a DUI affect insurance?
Insurers commonly look back three to five years when setting rates, so a DUI can raise your premiums for several years and may trigger an SR-22 requirement. The exact impact depends on the insurer and your state.