Consequences of a DUI in Georgia

Driving under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances is illegal in Georgia.

It is illegal to operate any motorized vehicle while under the influence of alcohol in the state of Georgia. Drivers who are found to have a blood alcohol level of 0.08 grams or more within three hours of driving are subject to penalties outlined in Georgia General Assembly Code 40-6-391. "Under the influence" also includes any amount of marijuana or controlled substance and all intentional influence of any glue, aerosol or other toxic vapor.

First Offense

First-time violators of Georgia's driving under the influence laws receive a minimum jail sentence of 24 hours and a one-year license suspension. First-time offenders may apply for a temporary driving permit after 30 days, which allows them to drive to their jobs, any court-appointed DUI programs and college. The permit costs $25.00. Recreation driving is prohibited with this special permit. Mandatory DUI programs required to be completed by firs- time offenders include a risk-reduction driving course. Previous offenders who have not had a DUI arrest in the last five years are considered first-time offenders.

Second Offense

Second-time DUI offenders in the state of Georgia are susceptible to a term of imprisonment not less than 10 days, possibly ranging to up to 12 months. It is left at the discretion of the state judge whether this sentence is reduced to a term of 24 hours, with the rest suspended as a probationary status. In addition to a three-year suspension of drivers license without possibility of a work driving permit , fines for second-time offenders range from $600.00 to $1,000.00. A mandatory community service time of 30 hours is also handed down. Second-time offenders must complete an alcohol abuse and reckless driving course administered by the state as well.

Third Offense

Three-time and subsequent violators of the Georgia DUI law are subject to a minimum of 120 days in jail, not exceeding 12 months, as well as fines as high as $5,000.00. Completion of requisite driving and alcohol courses must be verified by written approval of course administrators. Three-time offenders are also subject to a clinical evaluation to determine whether there are any substance abuse problems. A 30-day community service tenure is also required. Three-time offenders are not allowed to apply for probationary licenses to drive to work or school until two years after their conviction.

References

• Georgia General Assembly Code: 40-6-391
• 1800DUILaws: Georgia DUI Punishments
• Georgia DUI Lawyers: DUI Penalties

Resources

• Mothers Against Drunk Driving