Driving under the influence can land those over the age of 21 in a variety of charges and legal predicaments. Not only does an individual rack up offenses, but the illegal act can also cause severe damage or injury to passengers and other drivers on the road.
Georgia’s driving under the influence (DUI) law states that it is illegal for drivers of all ages to operate vehicles if those involved have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) percentage of:
- 08% or higher, if they’re 21 years or older operating regular passenger vehicles
- 04% or higher, if they’re operating commercial vehicles.
Summary of the various degrees of punishment for a DUI offense:
First Offense
- Suspended license for up to 1 year.
- A $300 – $1,000 fine.
- $210 fee for license reinstatement.
- DUI Alcohol or Drug Risk Reduction Program and all associated costs.
- Mandatory 40 hours of community service.
- Possible imprisonment of up to 1 year.
- Possible limited driving permit.
– This depends on your BAC, implied consent, and whether you have an administrative suspended license.
Second Offense
A second offense within 5 years brings:
- 18 months – 3 years of license suspension.
- A $600 – $1,000 fine.
- $210 fee for license reinstatement.
- DUI Alcohol or Drug Risk Reduction Program and all associated costs.
- Clinical evaluation and possible treatment.
- At least 30 days of community service.
- Minimum 48 hours in jail; possible sentence of 90 days to 1 year.
- Possible interlock ignition device. Possible limited driving permit.
– This depends on your BAC, implied consent, and whether you have an administrative suspended license.
Third Offense
On your third DUI offense, the GA DMV gives you Habitual Violator (HV) status and revokes your license for 5 years. They also confiscate your license plate.
You’ll also face:
- A $1,000 – $5,000 fine.
- $410 fee for license reinstatement.
- At least 15 days in jail.
- At least 30 days of mandatory community service.
- DUI Alcohol or Drug Risk Reduction Program and all associated costs.
- Clinical evaluation and treatment.
- Possible interlock ignition device and limited driving permit after 2 years.
- Your name, address, and photo published in your local newspaper
- (You pay for this)
The state of Georgia has strict rules and regulations when it comes to those involved with a DUI. If you are faced with DUI charges and legal issues contact Scott Brannen at The Brannen Law Office, P.C. The Brannen law team provides accurate, abiding, and respectful legal representation about all matters of law. Driving under the influence can have a negative impact on your future and time is always of the essence. Contact The Brannen Law Office, P.C., to help keep a DUI conviction off your record.