DUI Penalties in Connecticut: What You’re Really Facing

Jan 5

Getting arrested for a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Connecticut is overwhelming, especially if this is your first arrest. Anyone who has just been subjected to law enforcement, breathalyzer testing, police questioning, field sobriety tests, and in some cases, a car accident, is undoubtedly feeling anxious. Many people assume that by googling DUI penalties, you will get a straightforward answer and be able to understand what court will entail. However, DUI cases in Connecticut involved both criminal court penalties and separate DMV consequences and a google search may leave you more confused than before.

Understanding what you’re actually facing after a DUI arrest is the first step toward protecting your license, record, and future.

What is a DUI in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, you can be charged with a DUI when:

Your blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher, or 0.02% for drivers under 21 years old
You are caught driving while impaired, even if your BAC is below the legal limit
You are under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or both

You don’t have to be falling over drunk to be arrested. In fact, many DUI arrests occur after someone has one drink and believed they were fine to drive.

DUI Penalties by Offense Level

First Offense DUI Penalties:

Up to 6 months in jail, mandatory 48 hours in jail or 100 hours of community service
$500-1,000 fine
Probation for generally 12-18 months
Alcohol or substance abuse evaluation and treatment
Alcohol education or treatment programs
License suspension with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
Ignition interlock device requirement with the DMV

Many first-time offenders are eligible to apply for a diversionary program called Impaired Driving Intervention Program, depending on the circumstances. It is not a guarantee that just because you’re eligible for the program, that it will be granted.

Second Offense DUI Penalties:

Up to 2 years in jail
Mandatory 120 days minimum in jail
Higher fines
Longer probation
Substance abuse treatment
Longer license suspension with the DMV
Extended ignition interlock device requirement with the DMV

Second offenses are often treated as first offenses for the purpose of penalties, if the first DUI was dismissed after successful program completion.

Third or Subsequent DUI Penalties:

Felony DUI charge
Mandatory 1 year in jail
Large fines
Long-term probation
Substance abuse treatment
Extended or permanent license revocation with the DMV
Mandatory ignition interlock device with the DMV

At this level, the stakes are extremely high.

One often overlooked point is that if you have received a prior DUI in the last 10 years, all your prior DUI convictions will be considered for purposes of offense level and penalties.

Aggravating Factors That Can Increase Penalties

Certain factors can make DUI penalties worse or cause the State’s Attorney’s Office to make higher offers to resolve the case, including:

High BAC levels
Accidents that cause serious injury or property damage
Having a minor in the vehicle at the time of the DUI
Refusing the breathalyzer or chemical testing
Prior DUI convictions
Non-compliance with DMV requirements like the ignition interlock device

These factors can also affect bond, sentencing, and DMV consequences.

DMV Penalties vs. Criminal Penalties

Many people are surprised to learn that DUI cases involve two separate and distinct proceedings:

Criminal court

DMV administrative license suspension

DMV deadlines are strict and require fast action or you may lose the opportunity to contest the penalties. Unlike criminal court, the DMV does not need to prove that you committed a crime beyond a reasonable doubt before enacting penalties.

Can DUI Penalties Be Reduced?

Yes, DUI penalties can be reduced and depend on several factors, including:

Prior criminal record
Facts of the traffic stop, accident (if applicable), and arrest
Victims and their opinions and input
Whether your rights were violated
Eligibility for diversionary programs

Early legal intervention and a strong advocate can often make a meaningful difference.

Why You Should Not Handle a DUI Alone

DUI cases are technical and deadline-driven. Mistakes in the process can lead to unnecessary license loss and other penalties, missed program eligibility, and harsher penalties than required.

An experienced DUI attorney can help challenge evidence, protect your license, and guide you through both court and DMV proceedings.

Emily Shouse