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What is a DUI in Virginia?

A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) occurs when you operate a vehicle with a BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) of 0.08% or higher, or with detectable controlled substances in your system. Including:

  • 0.02 milligrams of cocaine
  • 0.1 milligrams of methamphetamine
  • 0.01 milligrams of PCP (phencyclidine)
  • 0.1 milligrams of MDMA (3,4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine)

What Are the Penalties for a First DUI?

First-time DUI penalties include:

  • Fines of $250-$2,500
  • Up to 12 months in jail
    • BAC of .15%-.20% – 5-day mandatory jail time
    • BAC of .20% or above– 10-day mandatory jail time
  • One-year license revocation
  • Completion of VASAP (Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program)

What Are the Penalties for a Second DUI?

Penalties for a second DUI in Virginia are more severe and vary based on how long it has been since your first conviction.

Second DUI within less than 5 years:

  • Fines of $500-$2,500
    • BAC of .15% or above– $1,000 minimum fine
  • Up to 12 months in jail, with a mandatory of 20 days
    • BAC of .15%-.20% – 30-day mandatory jail time
    • BAC of .20% or above– 40-day mandatory jail time
  • Three-year license revocation
  • Completion of VASAP (Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program)

Second DUI within 5-10 years:

  • Fines of $500-$2,500
    • BAC of .15% or above– $1,000 minimum fine
  • Up to 12 months in jail, with a mandatory of 10 days
    • BAC of .15%-.20% – 20-day mandatory jail time
    • BAC of .20% or above– 30-day mandatory jail time
  • Three-year license revocation
  • Completion of VASAP (Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program)

What Are the Penalties for a Third DUI?

A third DUI in Virginia is treated as a felony and also carries more severe penalties based on how long it has been since your last DUI conviction.

Third DUI within less than 5 years:

  • Fines of $1,000-$2,500
  • Up to 1-5 years in prison OR 1 year in jail
    • Mandatory of 6 months
  • Indefinite license revocation

Third DUI within 5-10 years:

  • Fines of $1,000-$2,500
  • Up to 1-5 years in prison OR 1 year in jail
    • Mandatory of 90 days
  • Indefinite license revocation

What Are the Penalties for a Fourth (or subsequent DUI)?

Penalties for a fourth or subsequent DUI include:

  • Fines of $1,000-$2,500
  • Up to 1-5 years in prison OR 1 year in jail
    • Mandatory of 1 year
  • Indefinite license revocation

What Should You Do After a DUI?

If you are charged with a DUI, take action immediately. Call a Driving Defense Law attorney at 757-929-0335 or book a consultation today to protect your rights, minimize penalties, and safeguard your driving privileges. Early representation can make a critical difference in the outcome of your case.