How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Driving Record?

Last Updated on December 31, 2025

A DUI (driving under the influence) can raise your car insurance rates and affect your driving privileges for years. But the answer to “How long does a DUI stay on your record?” depends on which record you mean—and which rules your state uses.

Some states use short “lookback” windows for repeat-offense penalties, while others can treat a decades-old conviction as a prior offense. And even if your state uses a shorter lookback period for certain penalties, a DUI can still remain visible on your DMV record or criminal record much longer.

Key Takeaways

• “How long a DUI stays on your record” can mean your DMV driving record, your criminal record, or your insurer’s rating window—and those timelines are often different.
• Most states use a 5- to 10-year DUI lookback period for repeat-offense penalties, but some states use longer windows (15, 20, 55 years) or lifetime lookbacks.
• A DUI usually affects car insurance rates for several years and may trigger SR-22/FR-44 filing requirements, making coverage significantly more expensive.
• The best way to confirm your timeline is to order your official driving record from your DMV and compare quotes—different insurers treat DUIs differently.

What “Stays on Your Record” Really Means

Most people use the word “record” to describe three different things. They aren’t the same:

• Driving record (MVR): Your DMV (or similar agency) keeps a record of violations tied to your license. Some violations are only shown on certain versions of your record, or for a limited time.
• Criminal record: A DUI conviction is a criminal matter in most states. Many states keep criminal convictions visible indefinitely unless they’re sealed/expunged.
• Insurance “lookback” or rating period: Insurers typically review your driving history when you apply and may re-check it later. A DUI usually affects pricing longer than a minor ticket.

How Long Does a DUI Affect Car Insurance Rates?

A DUI is one of the biggest red flags for insurers. Many drivers see premiums jump significantly after a conviction—especially if a court or DMV requires an SR-22 (or FR-44 in some states). If you want a deeper breakdown of what to expect, see our guide on how much insurance can go up after a DUI.

How long the increase lasts varies. Some insurers “forgive” a DUI sooner than others, but many will rate it for several years. Your price also depends on other underwriting factors (your age, location, mileage, vehicle, prior claims, coverage levels, and more). Here’s a full list of the top factors that determine your auto insurance rates.

Insurers usually pull a motor vehicle report (MVR) when you apply, and some check again at renewal. While there are exceptions, it’s safest to assume your insurer will review your history—here’s more on whether insurers check your driving record.

If you’re having trouble finding coverage after a DUI, you may need to compare multiple companies, consider a higher deductible, and avoid lapses in coverage. This guide can help you get started: cheap DUI/DWI car insurance options.

Do Points Matter for a DUI?

Some states use a points system, and a DUI can add a large number of points (or trigger an automatic suspension). Other states don’t use points the same way but still impose serious penalties. If your state uses points, here’s how drivers typically try to reduce the damage over time: how to get rid of points on your driver’s license.

DUI License Suspensions and How Long They Follow You

A DUI frequently leads to a suspension or revocation, and reinstatement can involve fees, treatment classes, ignition interlock requirements, and proof-of-insurance filings. If you’re wondering how long a suspension can be visible, see how long a suspended license stays on your record.

Also, a suspended license can create insurance complications. Even if you aren’t driving, you may still need to keep insurance active (especially if you own a vehicle or need an SR-22 on file). Learn more about car insurance with a suspended driver’s license.

DUI Lookback Periods by State

Many states use a lookback period (also called a “washout period”) to decide whether a new DUI counts as a second or subsequent offense. A longer lookback period typically means harsher repeat-offense penalties.

Important: A lookback period is not always the same thing as how long a DUI appears on a criminal background check or how long an insurer can consider it. Some states also use different windows for felony DUIs, administrative license penalties, and ignition interlock requirements.

Table: DUI Lookback Periods by State

Notable Exceptions and Nuances to Know

State rules can be more complicated than a single number. Here are some common “gotchas” to be aware of:

• Florida: Often uses 5 years for a second offense, but a third offense can use a longer window.
• Washington: Many repeat-offense penalties reference a 7-year window, but felony DUI rules can use a longer lookback period.
• Michigan: A second offense typically uses a 7-year window, while third and subsequent offenses can be treated differently.
• Ohio: Uses a 10-year lookback for many OVI penalties, with longer windows for certain repeat-offender or felony scenarios.
• Minnesota: Updated its administrative (license/interlock) rules to use a longer lookback window, which can change how repeat incidents are counted for reinstatement requirements.
• New Mexico: A DUI can be visible for an unusually long time compared to most states.

Why the Lookback Period Matters

Lookback periods matter for two big reasons:

• Repeat-offense penalties: A second DUI inside your state’s lookback window can mean higher fines, longer suspensions, and stricter requirements (like ignition interlock devices and treatment programs).
• Insurance consequences: Even when your state uses a shorter lookback period for certain penalties, insurers may still rate a DUI for years. They price based on risk, and a DUI is considered a major risk factor. Some states also assess additional fees or surcharges—learn more about how an insurance surcharge can affect your total cost.

How to Check What’s on Your Record

If you’re trying to plan ahead (for insurance shopping, reinstatement, or employment), don’t guess—verify:

• Order your driving record directly from your state DMV (or equivalent agency). Some states offer multiple record types (short-form vs. complete history).
• Review your insurance renewal documents to see whether you’re being surcharged and when that surcharge might be reconsidered.
• Ask your insurer (or agent) how long they rate DUI convictions and what documents they need if you’re required to file an SR-22/FR-44.

FAQs on How Long a DUI Stays on Your Record

Final Word on DUIs Staying on Your Record

How long a DUI stays on your record depends on your state and the type of “record” you’re talking about. Many states use a 5- to 10-year lookback period for repeat-offense penalties, but some states are much longer (including lifetime lookbacks). For insurance, expect a DUI to impact your rates for several years, and shop carefully to find the best option for your situation.