Getting pulled over for Driving Under the Influence is a high-stress event, but the legal proceedings are often just the beginning. One of the most common concerns for Californians is: “How long does a DUI stay on your record? Unlike a simple speeding ticket, a DUI conviction is a serious offense that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, both of which carry potential jail or prison time.
The consequences don’t vanish once your sentence is served; a conviction can linger on your background check, potentially impacting your ability to secure a job, rent an apartment, or even take out a bank loan. Understanding the timeline of these records and your options for relief is essential for moving forward. This article breaks down the duration a DUI remains on both your criminal and driving records, as well as the specific process for expunging your record in California.
How long does a DUI stay on your criminal record?
In California, unless a driver actively pursues the removal of the DUI on their criminal record, it will remain on a person’s criminal record.
The only method of removing the DUI is by filing for expungement. Expungement refers to the legal process of erasing or removing certain offenses, including misdemeanors, from one’s criminal record.
The details for how to do this are listed at the end of this article.
California treats DUI convictions seriously. The minimum amount of time a person’s driving record will show the DUI conviction is ten (10) years which is based on the date of arrest.
In California, the term “how long does a DUI stay on your record” is often tied to what legal experts call the “look-back” or “washout” period. Under Vehicle Code Section 23622, the state maintains a 10-year window to track prior offenses. This ten-year period is calculated from the date of your first arrest to the date of any subsequent DUI arrest.
If you are arrested for a second DUI within this decade, the court will treat it as a “priorable” offense, leading to significantly harsher penalties, including mandatory jail time, longer license suspensions, and higher fines. It is important to note that even if you successfully expunge your first DUI, it still counts as a prior offense during this 10-year window if you are charged again.
During this time, both law enforcement and car insurance providers can see the driver’s record. One consequence of being convicted of a DUI is a higher insurance rate.
Impact on Auto Insurance and the “Good Driver” Discount
While many people focus on the criminal aspect, the impact on your driving record is often what hits your wallet the hardest. In California, a DUI conviction typically stays on your DMV motor vehicle report (MVR) for ten years. During this time, insurance companies have the right to see this conviction when you apply for or renew a policy.
Most notably, a DUI conviction makes you ineligible for the “California Good Driver Discount” for ten years from the date of the violation. You may also be required to file an SR-22 Proof of Financial Responsibility form with the DMV to maintain your driving privileges. Because insurance providers view DUI holders as high-risk, you can expect your premiums to increase by an average of 150% to 300% or more until the ten-year period expires.
How long does a DUI stay on your record for employment?
A potential employer can see the DUI on the driver’s record when they conduct an employment check. However, depending on the type of job, an employer may choose to not be concerned about an older DUI conviction, especially if the job does not require driving.
Does a DUI show up on a background check?
Yes, a DUI conviction can show up on a background check.
Employers and landlords can access a person’s criminal record to ensure that they are hiring or leasing to someone who is not prone to risky behavior. Knowing that it will come up, being upfront about the DUI will be one’s best bet for a more desirable outcome.
Mandatory Ignition Interlock Devices (IID)
As of January 1, 2026, California law has shifted regarding how DUI offenders regain their driving privileges. Under new legislative updates, almost all individuals convicted of an alcohol-related DUI—including first-time offenders—are now required to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in every vehicle they operate for a specified period (typically 6 months for a first offense).
This requirement adds a layer of public visibility to the conviction, as the device must be professionally installed and calibrated. For many, this 2026 update makes the pursuit of expungement even more critical, as it serves as a formal step toward proving rehabilitation to future employers who may see the IID requirement on a background check.
Can you get a DUI expunged in California?
Yes. To remove the DUI from your criminal record requires filing a petition for expungement. There are certain requirements that will need to be met prior to filing which include the following:
- There are no open charges against you.
- You did not serve prison time as part of your DUI sentence (as opposed to jail time).
- You have completed all of the terms for your sentence.
Once these requirements have been met, you can file a petition to expunge your record. An attorney can do so on your behalf.
It is important to note that your driving record will not be impacted by the expungement of the DUI on your criminal record. Your driving record will still reflect the DUI for ten years, even if you file for expungement earlier.
To learn more about record expungement, see our article titled, Expungement in California – How to Clear Criminal Records.
Seeking expert legal guidance for DUI expungement?
Being charged with a DUI has negative consequences. It is important to understand the options available to you if you can get your record expunged. Our expungement lawyers at the Law Office of David L. Faulkner can help get you a better chance of a successful outcome when you file your petition. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation about your case.
