Tennessee DUI laws are some of the toughest in the nation. A person arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) can face serious criminal charges, including a mandatory jail sentence of up to 11 months and 29 days, up to a year of license suspension or revocation, and fines that can range from $350 to $15,000.
In Tennessee, there are three tiers of charges for DUI. The first tier is a standard DUI charge, which occurs when the driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08 or higher. This charge typically carries with it up to 11 months and 29 days in jail as well as a minimum fine of $350. A second DUI offense carries harsher penalties, including a minimum of 45 days in jail, license revocation for one year, and fines ranging from $600 to $3,500. Finally, the most severe DUI charge is an aggravated DUI charge, which occurs when the driver’s BAC is .20 or higher. This charge comes with a mandatory minimum sentence of 150 days in jail, license revocation for two years, and a fine of up to $15,000.
It is important to note that these penalties can vary depending on the circumstances of the case and the driver’s prior criminal record. Additionally, should certain aggravating factors be present such as having a minor in the vehicle or causing an accident resulting
Restricted License Requirements
If your license is suspended for a DUI, Tennessee has Restricted License provisions that can allow you to continue driving, with some restrictions. You must complete all other requirements of your suspension including paying fines and completing any required alcohol safety classes. To obtain a restricted license, you must meet the following conditions:
- Have an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle
- Obtain proof of financial responsibility (SR-22 filing)
- Have an alcohol assessment and comply with any recommended treatment or testing
- Pay the reinstatement fee
- Provide the Tennessee Department of Safety with a valid reason why you need to drive.
After meeting these conditions, you may be issued a limited license that will allow you to drive to and from specific locations, such as work or school. The restricted license is only valid for one year and must be renewed each year in order to remain valid.
Consequences of Driving with a Suspended License
Driving on a suspended license because of a DUI conviction is a serious crime in Tennessee. If you are caught driving with a suspended license, you can be arrested and have your vehicle impounded. You may also face fines or jail time, or both. This charge can also extend the length of your license suspension and put you at risk of having your driver’s license revoked permanently.
Tennessee First Offense DUI Penalties
Most First Offense DUI’s in Tennessee are considered misdemeanors and carry the following penalties:
- Up to 11 months and 29 days in jail
- A minimum fine of $350 up to a maximum of $1,500
- A license suspension of one year
- Participation in an alcohol/drug assessment and treatment program
- Installation of an ignition interlock device on any vehicle owned or operated by the driver
- Probation of 11 months and 29 days
- Mandatory attendance at a Victim Impact Panel
Restricted licenses may be available to individuals sentenced under Tennessee’s DUI laws, but there are several requirements that must be met in order to obtain one:
- The individual must have a valid license at the time of the DUI offense
- The individual must not have been convicted of a prior felony DUI in the past ten years
- The individual must successfully complete a court-mandated alcohol/drug treatment program
- If the BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) was .20% or higher
Tennessee Second Offense DUI Penalties
Most Second Offense DUI’s in Tennessee are considered misdemeanors and carry the following penalties:
- 45 days to 11 months and 29 days in jail
- A minimum fine of $600 up to a maximum of $3,500
- A license suspension of two years
- Participation in an alcohol/drug assessment and treatment program
- Installation of an ignition interlock device on any vehicle owned or operated by the driver
- Probation of 11 months and 29 days
- Mandatory attendance at a Victim Impact Panel
Restricted licenses may be available to individuals sentenced unde\
Additionally, if the individual is convicted of a third DUI offense within ten years, they will face harsher penalties and may not be eligible for a restricted license. Therefore, it is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible following a DUI
Tennessee Third Offense DUI Penalties
Most Third Offense DUI’s in Tennessee are considered felonies and carry the following penalties:
- A minimum of 150 days in prison to a maximum of 6 years
- A license suspension of six years
- Participation in an alcohol/drug assessment and treatment program
- Installation of an ignition interlock device on any vehicle owned or operated by the driver
- Probation of 11 months and 29 days
- Mandatory attendance at a Victim Impact Panel; and
- A minimum fine of $1,100 up to a maximum of $15,000.
Getting your driver’s license reinstated is a lengthy process, but it can be done with the help of an experienced attorney. Your attorney can review the specifics of your case and develop a strategy to get you reinstated as quickly as possible. They can also help you understand the legal implications of driving with a suspended license so that you can make an informed decision about whether it is in your best interest to pursue a restricted license or wait for your full reinstatement.
Tennessee DUI Under 21 Years of Age
If you are under 21 years of age and you are charged with a DUI in Tennessee, you should be aware that the penalties for underage drinking and driving are much harsher than those for adults. Underage DUI’s carry a minimum license suspension of one year, along with possible jail time, fines, probation and community service. Additionally, if your BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) is .02% or higher, your license will be suspended for one year and you may face additional criminal penalties.
The best way to avoid the serious consequences of a Tennessee DUI under 21 years of age is to not drink and drive. If you are charged with a DUI in this state, it is important to contact an experienced DUI attorney who can help you understand the legal repercussions of your case and develop a defense strategy to protect your rights.
Tennessee SR22 Requirements
In Tennessee, if you have been convicted of a DUI, or have had your license suspended for reasons other than a DUI, you may be required to obtain an SR22. An SR22 is basically proof that you are carrying the minimum amount of automobile liability insurance coverage according to state law. Depending on the severity of your offense, you may be required to have an SR22 for 3, 6, or 12 months.
It is important to note that if you fail to maintain your SR22 coverage during the period of time required by the court, your driver’s license may be suspended again. Additionally, if you are convicted of a DUI and do not obtain an SR22, you may be unable to obtain a restricted license.
If you have been convicted of a DUI and are required to obtain an SR22 in Tennessee, it is important to contact an experienced attorney who can help you understand the requirements for obtaining an SR22, as well as any other legal implications related to your case. An attorney can also help you find the best insurance rates and can provide guidance throughout the entire process.
Does Tennessee Allow Online DUI Courses?
Yes, Tennessee does allow online DUI courses. These online courses are approved by the state and must be taken in order for a driver to receive a restricted license following a DUI conviction. Drivers who have been convicted of a DUI are required to complete an alcohol/drug education course, which typically involves 10 hours of class time over two days. The online courses provide an alternative to completing the course in person and allow drivers to complete their requirement from the comfort of their own home.
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