sub banner image

At What Point Do You Get Your License Taken Away in DUI Cases?

In the Volunteer State, one in three crashes is attributed to a driver operating under the influence. The state punishes offenders harshly, with mandatory imprisonment, hefty fines, and even revocation of license privileges. In Tennessee, even first-time DUI offenders will have their license revoked.

If you have been charged with a DUI, you need to hire an experienced Tennessee DUI defense lawyer who knows how to get the charges against you dropped.

DUI Penalties in Tennessee

DUI penalties will vary based on your number of prior offenses:

First DUI Offense

  • Imprisonment of 48 hours to 11 months, 29 days
  • If BAC is 0.2 percent or greater, a minimum of 7 consecutive days in jail
  • License revocation for one year with a restricted license available
  • $350-$1,500 fine
  • Mandatory participation in alcohol and drug treatment programs

Second DUI Offense

  • Imprisonment of 45 days to 11 months, 29 days
  • License revocation for two years with a restricted license available
  • Vehicle may be seized or forfeited
  • $600-$3,500 fine
  • Mandatory alcohol and drug treatment program

Third DUI Offense

  • Imprisonment of 120 days to 11 months, 29 days
  • License revocation for six years with a restricted license available
  • Vehicle may be seized or forfeited
  • $1,100 to $10,000 in mandatory fines
  • Mandatory alcohol and drug treatment program

Fourth DUI and Subsequent DUI Offenses

  • Imprisonment of 365 days with a minimum of 150 consecutive days served
  • License revocation for eight years with a restricted license available
  • Vehicle may be seized or forfeited
  • $3,000 to $15,000 in mandatory fines
  • If there are two DUI convictions within a five-year period, an IID is required for six months after license reinstatement

Restricted License

If you have no prior DUI convictions on your record, you may qualify for a restricted license. To qualify, you must show that being unable to drive has created a hardship. With a restricted license, you will only be permitted to drive to work, take your kids to school, get medical care, and attend an alcohol and drug treatment program.

However, if you have a DUI conviction on your record within the last ten years and have been convicted of vehicular homicide, aggravated vehicular homicide, vehicular assault, or aggravated vehicular assault, you will not qualify for a restricted license. Additionally, if the DUI offense was the primary cause of serious bodily injury or death to another person, you will be denied a restricted license.

Ignition Interlock Device

The state of Tennessee requires those convicted of a DUI to install an ignition interlock device, or IID, in their vehicles. An IID is a device that hooks into your vehicle’s ignition. To start your engine, you will breathe into the IID. If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.02 percent or higher, your car will not start.

Under TN Code §55-10-417, an ignition interlock device, or IID, may be required for one year after an individual’s license is reinstated. IID users will be required to pay installation, monthly lease, and removal fees. These costs can add up quickly, although state law limits the amount that service providers can charge.

A Tennessee DUI Defense Lawyer Persevering for You

With the risk of losing your ability to drive, a DUI charge must be fought immediately. If you are facing DUI allegations, now is the time to speak with our Tennessee DUI lawyer. To protect your driving privileges, contact us by phone or by completing our online contact form. We offer no-risk, complimentary consultations.

Get In Touch With Us

By checking this box you agree to receive text messages at the number provided