If you’ve been arrested or convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), you’re probably wondering: How long does a DUI stay on your record? The answer depends on the type of record you’re referring to: Your criminal record, driving record, or car insurance history.
In this blog, we’ll break down the timelines, explain how a DUI can affect your future, and answer common questions. Whether you’re seeking license reinstatement or just want to know how long the impact lasts, here’s what you need to know.
Criminal Record vs. Driving Record vs. Insurance History: What’s the Difference?
Before we dive into the timelines, it’s important to understand the types of records a DUI can affect:
- Criminal Record: In Illinois, a DUI is a criminal offense and shows up on your criminal record. First-time DUI charges are typically misdemeanors, but repeat offenses or aggravating circumstances can result in felony charges.
- Driving Record: This is your driving history, maintained by the Illinois Secretary of State. It includes points, suspensions, revocations, and DUI-related entries.
- Car Insurance History: Your car insurance history contains claims (accidents, payouts), policy lapses, coverage details, and violations.
How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Criminal Record?
In Illinois, a DUI conviction stays on your criminal record forever. Illinois does not allow for expungement or sealing of DUI convictions, even for a first offense. That means if you’re convicted, the DUI will be visible on background checks for employment, housing, and more.
- Key Point: Does a DUI stay on your record forever? For criminal records in Illinois, yes, it does.
It may be possible to expunge or seal your arrest record if you were charged with a DUI but later found not guilty or the case was dismissed. Always consult with an attorney to explore your options if your case did not result in a conviction.
How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Driving Record?
A DUI stays on your Illinois driving record permanently, just like on your criminal record. The Illinois Secretary of State also does not have a lookback period for DUI offenses. This means that if you receive a DUI, a court can consider it when determining penalties for subsequent offenses at any time.
How Long Does a DUI Last on Your Record for Car Insurance?
Another place a DUI conviction shows up is in your auto insurance history. After a DUI, your insurance company may:
- Cancel your policy
- Increase your insurance rates significantly
The Illinois Secretary of State can mandate SR-22 insurance for DUI-convicted drivers as part of license reinstatement.
Insurance Penalties Timeline:
- Most insurance companies penalize DUI drivers for 3-5 years
- Your rates may slowly decrease if you maintain a clean driving record after the offense
- After 5+ years, some insurance companies may stop considering the DUI in their risk calculation, but not all do
- Insurers often reassess rates annually, with peak penalties in the first 1–3 years after conviction
So, how long does a DUI stay on your record in the eyes of a car insurance company? Typically 3–5 years, but this timeline varies based on your insurance provider and location.
What Happens After a DUI?
In addition to staying on your record, a DUI conviction can result in:
- DUI license suspension and revocation
- Mandatory alcohol/drug evaluation and treatment
- Fines, court fees, and possible jail time
- Required installation of a BAIID (Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device)
- Loss of employment or professional licensing
If your driver’s license has been revoked after a DUI, you’ll need to go through a Secretary of State hearing to request reinstatement. This process requires:
- Proof of treatment or counseling
- Testimony and support letters
- A strong case demonstrating rehabilitation
If you’re preparing for reinstatement, we recommend speaking with a skilled reinstatement lawyer to seek legal support. Contact us at Johnson & Goldrich, P.C., to set up a free consultation.
DUIs and Your Future
While a DUI stays on your record, that doesn’t mean it has to define your future. Many people go on to rebuild their lives, careers, and driving privileges with time and support.
A DUI will not disappear from your criminal or driving record, and convictions can’t be expunged. However, the impact of your DUI can lessen over time, especially if:
- It’s your only offense
- You’ve completed substance abuse treatment and education
- You’ve maintained a clean record since the violation
Can You Ever Get a DUI Removed?
A DUI can be removed from your record in Illinois only if the case is dismissed or you receive a “not guilty” verdict. If you were convicted, there’s no legal way to remove it from your record. However, you can avoid additional offenses and reduce the long-term impact by building a case for license reinstatement.
Final Conclusions: How Long Is a DUI on Your Record?
Let’s recap the key takeaways:
How long does a DUI stay on your record in Illinois?
- Criminal Record: Indefinitely
- Driving Record: Indefinitely
- Auto Insurance Record: Typically 3–5 years
- Do DUIs go away? Not in Illinois, unless the charge was dismissed or resulted in an acquittal.
- How long is a DUI on your record in terms of background checks? Indefinitely
While a DUI can feel like a permanent black mark, it doesn’t have to control your future. With the right legal guidance, you can navigate reinstatement hearings, minimize consequences, and move forward with confidence.
Need Help After a DUI?
If your license has been revoked or you’re preparing for a reinstatement hearing, Johnson & Goldrich, P.C., is here to help. Our team has helped many Illinois drivers get back on the road legally and safely. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn about your options for moving forward after a DUI.