Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

Does drunk driving show on a criminal record?

I received a drunk driving charge about a week ago, and I’m trying to figure out the entire mess. I know that it comes with some serious consequences, but I’m also not sure what they are. Will a drunk driving charge show on my criminal record?

avatar
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Unless you plead guilty to a lesser charge or your record is expunged, drunk driving will show up on a criminal record if you’re convicted. This includes convictions through court proceedings, as well as refusals to submit to a breathalyzer or blood test.
However, the law varies greatly from state to state in terms of penalties and classification. In all states, a first-time drunk driving or
DUI
charge is a misdemeanor (assuming no injuries or fatalities occurred). Second-time drunk driving charges are a misdemeanor in some states but a felony in others. A third-time drunk driving charge is always a felony.
If you’re worried about this charge showing up, getting an experienced lawyer is always a smart idea. These professionals may be able to get the charge expunged, which means it won’t show up on a background check and you can legally say you have no convictions.
Regardless of whether you get the drunk driving charge expunged or not, your car insurance rates will likely increase. That’s when the
Jerry
app can help.
Jerry is a licensed insurance broker that will collect quotes from over 50 top-rated insurers in minutes. After you find a great rate, Jerry can help you buy new insurance and cancel your old policy. Users save an average of $887 per year.
MORE: How long does a speeding ticket stay on your record?
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings