What If I Get a DUI in Another State?

Things to Consider

If you’re a Virginia resident on vacation in another state, it may be very easy to enjoy yourself while on your trip and just have that extra drink or two. However, if you are pulled over and charged with a DUI, then the consequences are twofold. You will face penalties in the state you received the charge, but you will have additional penalties when you return home to Virginia.

Other State Penalties

If convicted of your DUI charge, you will likely face penalties in the state by which you were charged. These penalties will vary from state to state but can include both fines and jail time.

In addition to these potential consequences, the state that charged you will likely communicate that charge to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles through the Driver’s License Compact, an interstate agreement that has states communicate with one another in the event of an out-of-state charge.

In-State Penalties

Virginia will impose penalties as if you were charged with a DUI within the state. Your penalties will not include additional fines or jail time, as Virginia does not “double-dip” in penalties. However, additional penalties could include the following:

• Driver’s license suspension or revocation.
• Fees to reinstate your driver’s license when your suspension period is up.
• A probation period.
• A possible restricted driving privilege, allowing you to drive only to and from specific locations.
• Mandatory alcohol safety program training (such as Alcohol Safety Action Program or ASAP)
• An interlocking ignition device, such as a breathalyzer, that prevents you from driving your vehicle unless you blow into the device and register with zero alcohol on your breath.
  
  Your out-of-state charge will also remain on your driving record in Virginia.

Fighting Charges

You are not automatically guilty of a DUI charge because you were arrested. It is possible to fight your charge in court with the help of a qualified attorney. At Tillotson & Martin, LLC, we wrote the book on Virginia DUI laws. We can help you fight your charge and protect your rights as a citizen.

Call us today at (757) 568-7978 or visit our website to schedule a consultation with one of our Virginia DUI attorneys.