A DUI conviction in California can follow you for years—impacting everything from job prospects to your car insurance rates. If you’ve been arrested or convicted of driving under the influence, understanding how long a DUI stays on your record is critical for planning your next steps and protecting your future.
At Carolyn L. Oliver | Criminal Defense Law Firm, we help clients throughout San Diego and beyond navigate the complexities of DUI charges and their long-term consequences. This guide breaks down the timelines, record types, and options for minimizing the lasting effects of a DUI in California.
Different Types of DUI Records in California
A DUI doesn’t just appear in one place. In California, a DUI conviction can affect three distinct types of records:
- Criminal Record
- DMV (Driving) Record
- Insurance Record
Each has its own timeline—and consequences. Here’s what you need to know.
Criminal Record: Possibly Permanent
Once you’re convicted of DUI in California, the conviction becomes part of your criminal record, which is accessible during background checks by employers, landlords, and even certain volunteer organizations. Unless you pursue expungement, that record can remain indefinitely.
Can You Expunge a DUI?
Yes—under California Penal Code 1203.4, you may qualify for expungement after completing probation.
Requirements for expungement include:
- Completion of all probation terms
- Not currently charged with or serving a sentence for another offense
What expungement won’t do:
- It doesn’t erase the conviction from your DMV record
- It doesn’t prevent the court from using it as a prior DUI if you’re charged again within 10 years
While expungement can reduce the impact of a DUI on job applications and housing, it doesn’t make the record disappear entirely.
DMV Record: 10 Years
The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) keeps DUI convictions on your driving record for 10 years from the date of the violation.
During this time, your record can:
- Affect your eligibility for a restricted driver’s license
- Increase penalties for future DUI charges
- Be visible to employers who have legal access to DMV records (e.g., commercial driving roles)
Important Note: Expunging your criminal record does not remove the DUI from your DMV record.
Insurance Record: 3 to 7 Years
Auto insurers typically consider a DUI conviction for three to seven years, with the most significant premium increases occurring in the first three to five years.
How a DUI affects your rates depends on:
- Your insurer’s policies
- Whether it was a first or repeat offense
- Your driving history overall
Some insurance companies may even drop your coverage or refuse to renew your policy after a DUI.
What If You Have More Than One DUI?
Each DUI conviction starts a new 10-year countdown with the DMV. Multiple DUIs in a 10-year window lead to harsher penalties, including:
- Extended driver’s license suspensions
- Mandatory installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
- Increased fines and possible jail time
- “Habitual Traffic Offender” status with the DMV
Professional License Holders: Special Considerations
If you hold a state license—such as for teaching, medicine, law, or real estate—a DUI conviction may trigger mandatory reporting to your licensing board. The board could take disciplinary action, especially if there are multiple offenses or aggravating factors (like an elevated blood alcohol level or injuries).
How to Reduce the Impact of a DUI
If you’ve been convicted—or you’re currently facing DUI charges—there are steps you can take to protect your record and your future:
Seek Expungement
Even though it won’t erase the DUI entirely, expungement can help with employment and professional licensing in many cases.
Complete All Court Requirements
Probation, DUI education classes, fines, and community service should be completed fully and on time. Courts and future employers often view compliance as a sign of rehabilitation.
Keep a Clean Driving Record
Avoid traffic violations and new offenses. A clean record after a DUI helps with license reinstatement and improved insurance rates over time.
Consult an Experienced DUI Defense Attorney
If you’re still facing charges, it may be possible to:
- Challenge the legality of the stop or arrest
- Dispute the results of breath or blood tests
- Negotiate for a reduced charge, such as “wet reckless”
Let Us Help You Move Forward
At Carolyn L. Oliver | Criminal Defense Law Firm, we’ve helped countless individuals throughout California fight DUI charges, protect their licenses, and move forward from mistakes with as little long-term damage as possible.
If you or a loved one is facing DUI charges or trying to recover from a past conviction, don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact our office today for a confidential consultation and learn how we can help protect your record—and your future.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different, and outcomes depend on your specific facts and circumstances.
