A DUI can affect your life in so many various ways. Many times, a DUI stays on your record for a very long time. This may interfere with getting a job, renting a house, or even driving a car again. Let an experienced Kansas City dui defense lawyer see how long a DUI remains on your record and what it does for you.
How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Driving Record?
A DUI will stay on your driving record in the state of Missouri for 10 years. That is, insurance companies and the Missouri Department of Revenue can see it for the next 10 years.
For 10 years:
- You may be required to pay more for insurance.
- You may be required to take more driving courses.
- You may have your license suspended for some time.
- It can impact obtaining some kinds of work.
Your driving record is like a report card. A DUI places a huge red sticker on it. Even if only one time, it stays there for ten years.
How Long Will a DUI Stay on My Criminal Record?
A DUI will stay on your criminal record forever unless you have it expunged.
This is important because:
- Employers often review criminal records.
- Landlords will be able to deny your rental application.
- It can affect custody cases or college applications.
- You may be denied certain permits or licenses.
Even years later, a DUI will come back. It can keep you from getting the job of your dreams or even volunteering at your child’s school.
Can You Erase a DUI from Your Record
Yes, but in exceptional cases. In Missouri, you may seek the expungement (wiping) of a first DUI charge after 10 years, but only if:
- You have not had another DUI or alcohol-related charge within the past 10 years.
- No one was harmed in your DUI.
- It was not a felony DUI (i.e., no serious injury, no multiple DUIs).
How to file a petition for expungement:
- Petition the court.
- Have a hearing.
- If the judge grants it, the DUI is removed from your public record.
It’s a significant issue when you’re getting a job or renting an apartment. But you have to complete the full 10 years. And you have to be clean until then.
How Does a DUI Affect Your Life?
A DUI stays with you. Even as a first-time offender, it has long-term effects:
- Harder to get driving jobs.
- Trouble finding an apartment or house.
- Car insurance costs a lot more.
- Emotional distress and embarrassment.
- Can occur to family and friends.
Some are also fined for community service, alcohol treatment, and court fees. These add up quickly. A DUI is not merely a criminal offense. It impacts nearly everything in your life.
What Happens to Your License?
Missouri can suspend your license following a DUI. This is known as a “license suspension.”
Here’s how it goes:
- First offense: Suspension for 90 days. You may be issued a restricted driving license.
- Second offense: Suspension for one year or longer.
- Third offense: Risk of permanent loss of license.
You may also be ordered to have an ignition interlock device put on your car. That’s when you need to blow into a breath test to get your car started. Also, you’ll be required to attend a Substance Awareness Traffic Offender Program (SATOP) to have your license reinstated. These take time and money. But they’re required.
Can Employers Find Out If You Have a DUI?
Yes. Employers can learn about your DUI if they conduct a background check. Some employers won’t hire you because of it.
- Jobs that may care the most:
- Jobs involving driving (bus, delivery, truck driving)
- Government jobs
- Employment with children or schools
- Healthcare work
- Security clearance work
Even jobs that do not involve a clean driving record may consider a DUI a problem. It can test your judgment and reliability.
Will a DUI Raise My Rates?
Yes. Insurance companies raise your rates following a DUI. Some even cancel your policy.
Here’s what to anticipate:
- Rates can rise for 3 to 5 years.
- You may be asked to carry special high-risk insurance (SR-22).
- Some companies will not insure you at all.
- Your premiums may double or triple.
Shop around whenever possible. Some companies handle DUI cases better than others. Obtain companies with high-risk driver specialties.
What is an SR-22?
An SR-22 is not an insurance policy. It’s a form your insurance company will send to the state. It shows you carry the coverage mandated after a DUI.
In Missouri:
- You will need to keep SR-22 for two or three years following a DUI.
- If your policy expires, your license is suspended once more.
- You must have coverage uninterrupted with no gap.
Even if you move out of state, Missouri may still require the SR-22. Check with your insurance agent so you’ll know what the regulations are.
What If I Get Another DUI?
A second DUI is a bad bargain. The penalty is tougher. The judge considers it a habit.
What’s new that occurs:
- Jail time becomes more routine.
- You can be guilty of a felony.
- It is more difficult to get your license back.
- Charges and fines rise.
- You may not be able to have both DUIs erased.
You can destroy your life with repeated offenses. That is why so many individuals are offered assistance or therapy following a first DUI.
How to Handle Life After a DUI
A DUI is difficult, but you will make it through. Here are some pointers:
- Go to court hearings. Don’t miss them.
- Pay fines and fees. Save receipts.
- Drive or alcohol education classes. Judges typically request this.
- Be mindful of license laws. Drive only allowed.
- Avoid alcohol problems. Clean yourself up.
- Watch the 10-year milestone. Be mindful of when you can qualify for expungement.
- Seek help. Talk to a counselor or support group.
Try finding employment with good hiring practices. Some companies will give a second chance. Keep your head in the game, and things might change for you. One bad decision does not make you.
FAQs Regarding Missouri DUI Records
1. Will a DUI exclude me from traveling overseas?
Yes. Certain nations will refuse to let you in if you have a DUI conviction on your record. Canada is hard and fast on this. Always review travel regulations before booking a flight.
2. Will my DUI ever appear on background checks?
If not expunged, yes. A DUI will appear on most background checks. Even the old ones will appear unless removed by the court.
3. How does DWI differ from DUI in Missouri?
Both are utilized in Missouri. DUI is Driving Under the Influence. DWI is Driving While Intoxicated. They typically both describe the same offense.
4. Can a DUI and more than one be expunged?
No. Missouri only expunges a first-time, non-felony DUI. Multiple DUIs remain on your record.
5. Do I have to get an attorney to have a DUI expunged?
It does some good. A lawyer knows how to complete the forms and how to speak in court. It’s not required, but it may provide more options on your record.
Final Words
A Missouri DUI stays on your crime record until you have it expunged. On your driver’s license, it stays for 10 years. It affects your license, future employment possibilities, insurance, and lifestyle. But sooner or later and with action, the pendulum will return. Knowing your rights and the law enables you to take the right action after a lapse.
Consult a local traffic defense lawyer today.
