The Real Cost of a DUI in 2026 — Every Expense, by State

A first DUI can cost $10,000–$30,000. See the full breakdown by state.

The financial toll of a DUI stretches far beyond the initial court fines. When factoring in legal representation, administrative penalties, and the long-term insurance impact, a single conviction can destabilize your finances for years.

The 5 Pillars of DUI Expenses

• Auto Insurance Surcharges: This is historically the largest expense. Based on national averages, a DUI increases insurance premiums by 70% to 80%. Over a standard three-year penalty period, this alone can cost between $3,500 and $6,000.
• Legal and Attorney Fees: A standard DUI defense typically costs between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on whether the case goes to trial.
• Ignition Interlock Devices (IID): With installation and monthly monitoring ($70-$80/mo), a standard one-year IID mandate costs approximately $1,000 to $1,200.
• Fines and Court Costs: Base fines vary by state, but frequently run from $300 to $1,500 for a first offense, not including mandatory victim assessment fees.
• DMV Reinstatement & Education: You will pay state administrative fees to reinstate your license ($50-$500) and mandatory tuition for alcohol education classes ($150-$500).

According to the NHTSA and aggregate state data, the total out-of-pocket cost for a first-time DUI conviction routinely exceeds $10,000. Securing the lowest possible high-risk insurance rate is the most effective way to mitigate this long-term financial damage.