Vermont DUI Penalties

First Offense:

If a motorist is convicted of DUI first offense, they face up to 2 years in prison a fine of up to $750 or both. 23 VSA 1210(b).

Beyond the potential imprisonment penalty and fine, a motorist will also face a 90-180 day license suspension.  In order to have their license reinstated a motorist must complete the following:

1)  Complete the Vermont CRASH program;

2) If ordered by the CRASH administrator, undergo alcohol counseling at the motorists’ expense;

3)  Submit completed CRASH certificate to the Vermont DMV;

4)  Pay a $73.00 reinstatement fee to the Vermont DMV;

5)  Wait for the Vermont DMV to inform you in writing that your right to operate in the State of Vermont has been reinstated.

Second Offense:

If charged with a Vermont DUI, having been convicted of a prior DUI a motorists faces up to 2 years in prison with a mandatory minimum of 48 hours in jail a $1500 fine or both.  23 VSA 1210(c).  A motorist may also face a license suspension of up to 18 months.

Felony DUI

A motorist charged with a third DUI faces felony DUI.  Felony DUI carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison a fine of not more than $2,500 or both.  23 VSA 1210(d)  If convicted of Felony DUI a motorist faces up to a lifetime suspension of their driver’s license.

For Felony DUI, a motorist must show abstinence from alcohol for a three year period, at which point it shall be at the DMV’s discretion to determine whether they will reinstate an individual’s license. 23 VSA 1209a(b)