A DUI is reported on your driving record for 10 years, and can potentially be seen in background checks for life.
One of the most serious consequences of a DUI isn’t a criminal penalty at all. It’s the fact that having a DUI on your record can give other people the wrong impression of you, and that a DUI can follow you for years—or even life. In California, a DUI is “reported” in several places.
The first is on your driving record. Under California law, a DUI will remain on your driving record for 10 years from the date of the offense. Your driving record is primarily seen by insurance companies. If you have car insurance, your insurer may periodically check your driving record (without notifying you) and adjust your rates based on what they find. You will have to inform your insurer of your DUI if you need an SR-22 form, but even if you don’t, they can find out on their own by checking your record.
The second place is on a criminal background check. This is mostly used by:
- Potential employers
- Schools you apply to
- Apartment buildings and landlords
A detailed background check may pull up a DUI long after the 10-year window has passed. The best way to deal with this is to get your DUI expunged. An expunged DUI may not show up at all, and cannot be held against you even if it does.
Have you been charged with DUI? We can connect you with an experienced Los Angeles DUI lawyer and get you a FREE consultation. Fill out the form to the right or call (310) 896-2724 and get your free consultation today.
