What Is the Penalty for a First DUI Offense in Florida?

First-offense DUI penalties in the state of Florida are severe.

Being issued a first-offense DUI (driving under the influence) in the state of Florida is a costly and time-consuming ordeal, particularly for drivers younger than 21. The first-offense penalty includes several components such as a fine, vehicle impound, driving probation, mandatory schooling, license revocation, community service and possible imprisonment.

First Offense Penalties

The penalty of a first-offense DUI in the state of Florida includes a fine, community service, probation period and possible imprisonment, impounding of the vehicle, license revocation and DUI schooling. The fine for a first offense is $500 to $1,000. If the driver has a Blood/Breath Alcohol Level (BAL) of .15 or higher or is driving with a minor in the vehicle, the fine becomes $1,000 to $2,000. In addition, 50 hours of community service are required as well as 12 hours of DUI school. The driver's license will be revoked for a minimum of 180 days and the driver can be put on probation for up to a year. Imprisonment of up to six months (depending on BAL) may be enforced as well.

DUI Defined

A DUI in the state of Florida includes driving under the influence of alcoholic beverages, chemical substances or controlled substances.

DUI Enforcement

In Florida, a person can be convicted of a DUI if he has a Blood/Breath Alcohol Level (BAL) of .08 or higher or if it is determined that his normal faculties are impaired.

Drivers Under 21

The state of Florida holds a zero tolerance policy for drivers under the age of 21. The law requires that a driver younger than 21 who is stopped and has a Blood Alcohol Limit (BAL) of .02 or higher will lose her license for six months. The BAL for drivers over 21 is .08.

Average Costs

A conviction for driving while intoxicated in the state of Florida is costly. The Florida Department of Motor Vehicles states that the average cost of a first-offense DUI is around $8,000.

References

• Florida DUI and Administrative Suspension Laws
• Florida DUI: Drunk Driving