How Long Does A DUI Stay on Your Record in Florida? 2025

Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most serious traffic offenses in Florida, and the consequences extend far beyond fines or license suspension. Between 2013 and 2023, impaired-driving-related crashes comprised 34.21% of total traffic fatalities in Florida, according to state data. A common concern for many drivers is: How long does a DUI stay on your record in Florida?

The duration of a DUI on a driver’s record in Florida varies based on whether the record refers to driving history or criminal history. Knowing the long-term consequences of a DUI can help you make smart choices for your future. This includes factors such as job opportunities, insurance rates, and eligibility for record sealing.

How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Florida Driving Record?

In Florida, a DUI conviction stays on your driving record for 75 years. This is significantly longer than most traffic tickets, and a DUI will not be removed by attending traffic school or waiting a few years. This long retention period enables the DMV and insurance companies to monitor your driving history for potential future infractions.

A DUI on your record can drastically increase your insurance premiums and may disqualify you from jobs that involve driving. Even if it’s a first offense, the long-term visibility of a DUI can carry financial and professional consequences that last well beyond your court sentence or license suspension.

What’s The Lifelong Impact of a DUI on Your Criminal Record?

A DUI conviction in Florida creates a permanent entry on your criminal record. Your driving record is accessible to insurance companies and law enforcement agencies, while your criminal record is available to employers and landlords, as well as licensing agencies and educational institutions. This can have serious consequences for your employment, housing, and career.

The DUI conviction stays on your record, even if the punishment involved only probation or a short jail sentence. If your DUI case was dismissed or adjudicated without you pleading guilty, there are ways to limit who can see the DUI on your criminal record, but if you were convicted of DUI, it will be visible.

Criminal records are public records and remain accessible indefinitely. A DUI can stain your reputation and limit your choices for life.

Can a DUI Be Expunged or Sealed in Florida?

For the most part, a DUI cannot be sealed or expunged in Florida. State law says explicitly that DUI convictions are not eligible for post-conviction relief. This is the case even for first-time offenders. The only way to seal a DUI is if your charge was dismissed or you were found not guilty.

If so, then expungement may be an option. But if you were convicted of a DUI, it will remain on your record forever. For that reason, it’s important to challenge the charge early and look at all of your legal options before you enter a plea or accept a sentence.

How Do Employers and Insurers See a DUI on Your Record?

A DUI conviction damages your record while also altering employer perceptions and insurance evaluations. Most employers conduct background checks. Therefore, a DUI, especially if it involves driving, safety, or financial responsibility, can make a hiring manager think twice about bringing you on board. Insurance companies also frown on DUIs.

It could result in a significant increase in your premiums for a period. The financial and professional repercussions of one DUI offense can exceed several thousand dollars over time.

FAQs

Call Amarosa Law Firm, P.A. – Trusted Tampa DUI Lawyers

If you are facing a DUI charge, an experienced Tampa DUI lawyer can help you navigate Florida DUI laws and provide invaluable legal assistance during your case. They can zealously advocate for your interests and work hard to mitigate the charges you face or even seek a dismissal, in some circumstances.

At Amarosa Law Firm, P.A., we fight hard for our clients and can meet with you right away. Call Amarosa Law Firm to speak with a Tampa DUI defense attorney who won’t rest until they’ve done all they can to resolve your case positively.