04/22/2026
What should you expect when you get your first DUI in Tennessee?
- Jail Time: 48 hours up to 11 months and 29 days. If your BAC is .20 or higher, you face a minimum of 7 consecutive days in jail.
- License Revocation: Your driver’s license will be revoked for 1 year. A restricted license may be available.
-Treatment Program: You will be ordered to participate in an alcohol and drug treatment program.
-Restitution: You may be required to pay restitution if someone suffered physical injury or personal loss.
-Fines: $350–$1,500.
-Additional Costs: When you add towing, bail, attorney’s fees, high-risk insurance, court costs, DUI school, and reinstatement fees, your first offense can cost around $4,900.
-Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Installed at your expense, with minimum first-year costs over $1,000.
- Judge’s Discretion: Drug and alcohol treatment may be required depending on the judge’s order.
⚖️ A first DUI charge in Tennessee carries serious, long-lasting consequences. If you or someone you know is facing a DUI, give our office a call as soon as possible to understand your rights and options at (423) 442-5800
