How long does a DUI stay on your record if you do the diversion program?

Answer 1

No matter what state you reside in DUI's stay on your record for life now, due to (I believe) a Federal mandate. They changed the law regarding your first DUI and your ability to have it immediately taken off your record after completing the diversion program and staying off the roads after drinking a few for 5 years, in the early 2000's, think it was 2004. What sucks is those of us that had their first DUI in the 90's or even earlier, did the entire diversion program and had no record of a DUI on our driving records for over 10 years and then plop, they change the law, but don't keep their end of the bargain and grandfather us, like they should have. So after 10 to sometimes 30 some odd years one day, everyone that took a diversion and performed every task, without any notification suddenly had one DUI put right back on their record. Believe me, I'm not condoning anyone to go drink and then drive. It really is one of the most irresponsible things you can do and it can kill you, or someone else, or many other nasty things like losing your job, etc, etc. But everyone makes one or a thousand lapses of judgment in life and there's always someone out there that thinks they're still sober, but are really over the limit. If you drink anything don't drive. I could tell you story after story. One night I had some beers at my friend's place and and only drove .06 miles to the McDonald's adjacent to his place, ordered my food and then was wondering why it was taking so long, just as two patrol cars pin me in. The drive-thru lady and community watch queen called the cops on me because I slurred a little while ordering. I thought it was a set-up so I refused the breathalyzer, and then to find out I was being charged with a 2nd was a huge bummer due to these new laws. You spend time in jail for your second.

The only thing regarding DUIs that can be taken off your record is if you have a third one, do some outrageous time on probation, in jail, and 3 months on house arrest with an ankle monitor because you now have a felony on your record. Yep a third one is felony. But...... you can change 1 thing regarding a 3rd DUI for the low low price ranging anywhere from 3-5 grand after 5 years with no felonies or DUIs you can pay to take the felony off your record. That's the only thing the defendant has on their side, but I would strongly suggest not getting 1, 2 is much worse, and don't get a 3rd. It destroys your life.