Utah DUI Laws:2025 DUI Charges Guide
Utah administers some of the strictest DUI laws in the nation, with a 0.05% blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit; the lowest in the US. Even in the last few years, Utah lawmakers have enacted new and tougher laws specifically addressing first-time drunk driving offenses and those who are convicted of multiple DUIs. The state is deeply focused on reducing recidivism rates and enhancing road safety.
Getting Started
If you’re arrested for a DUI in Utah, you face a complex legal process with both administrative and criminal consequences. These two processes operate independently but can overlap or run consecutively depending on the circumstances of your DUI.
Utah applies severe penalties even for first-time DUI offenses; however, the state also implements a robust ignition interlock device program to help reduce the likelihood of repeat drunk driving convictions.
Important Note: While this page provides detailed information about Utah DUI laws, DUI.org does not offer legal advice. Laws can change, so consult a qualified DUI attorney for personalized guidance.
Definitions to Know
DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
In Utah, this refers to Driving Under the Influence of alcohol or drugs. Utah uses the term “DUI” rather than DWI or OWI.
SR-22
An insurance certificate of proof of financial responsibility typically required after a DUI conviction in Utah.
IID (Ignition Interlock Device)
A breathalyzer installed in a vehicle to prevent it from starting if alcohol is detected on your breath.
Utah Driver License Division (DLD)
The state organization that handles administrative license revocations, restricted license applications, IID oversight, and SR-22 monitoring. The DLD works alongside the court system but handles the administrative penalties related to your driving privileges.
Each state enforces DUI laws differently
Steps to Take After a DUI Arrest in Utah
- Hire an Attorney
Legal counsel can help navigate both DLD administrative processes and criminal proceedings in Utah’s court system.
- Address License Suspension
Expect your driver’s license to be suspended based on the severity of the offense. In Utah, this happens quickly after arrest.
- Request an Administrative Hearing
If disputing a suspension, you must request a hearing with the Utah DLD within 10 days of your arrest.
- Apply for a Restricted License
If eligible, you may apply for limited driving privileges by installing an ignition interlock device through the Utah DLD.
- Install an IID
A breathalyzer is required for certain offenses in Utah, especially for high-BAC convictions or repeat offenses.
Explore IIDs - File an SR-22 Form
Proof of insurance-related financial responsibility may be required for license reinstatement in Utah.
- Complete Substance Abuse Evaluation and Treatment
Attend evaluation and complete recommended programs through approved Utah providers.
- Pay Fines and Fees
You’ll need to pay court fines plus other fees, such as license reinstatement and state charges.
- Complete DUI Education Program
Mandatory alcohol education courses are required in Utah for DUI offenders.
- Attend Court Proceedings
Your case will proceed through Utah’s criminal court independently from administrative actions.
- Avoid Further Violations
Whether you’re on probation, using a restricted license, or have just had your license reinstated, any new DUI or license violation can lead to severe penalties including jail time and longer suspensions.
DUI Laws in Utah
What Are the Legal Driving Alcohol Limits in Utah?
In Utah, it’s illegal to drive if you’re under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both. Utah has the strictest blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in the nation. Police often use a breathalyzer to quickly check your breath alcohol concentration (BrAC).
| Driver Category | Legal Limit |
| Drivers over 21 | 0.05% BAC (lowest in the U.S.) |
| Commercial Drivers | 0.04% BAC1 |
| Drivers under 21 | 0.00% BAC (zero tolerance) |
Felony vs Misdemeanor DUI in Utah
In Utah, most first and second DUI offenses are classified as misdemeanors. However, certain circumstances can elevate a DUI to a felony charge.
A DUI becomes a felony in Utah if:
- It’s your third or subsequent offense within 10 years
- The DUI caused serious bodily injury to another person
- The DUI resulted in death
- You have a prior felony DUI conviction
Felony DUI convictions carry much harsher penalties, including longer jail sentences, higher fines, and extended license suspensions compared to misdemeanor charges.
Does Utah Offer Drunk Driving Diversion Programs?
Utah does offer at least one alternative sentencing option for certain DUI cases, especially for first-time charges and nonviolent offenses. While not formally a legal “diversion program,” as it does not prevent prosecution or conviction, Utah’s 24/7 Sobriety Program can help drivers avoid jail time while encouraging alcohol abstinence.
Utah’s 24/7 Sobriety Program
Utah’s 24/7 Sobriety Program offers an alternative to jail for people convicted of DUI by focusing on accountability and sobriety. When the court orders you into this program, you must submit to alcohol or drug testing twice a day, every day, to prove you’re staying sober. If you consistently test negative and follow all program rules you can often keep your driver’s license and avoid jail time. The program is available to both first-time and repeat DUI participants, if you meet eligibility requirements, such as being able to reinstate your driver’s license and being ordered into the program by the court.
Refusing a Chemical Test Under Utah DUI Law
Utah applies an implied consent law. When you drive in Utah, you automatically consent to chemical testing if an officer suspects you of driving under the influence. Refusing a test in Utah carries serious administrative penalties.
| Consequence | First Refusal | Second Refusal |
| License Suspension | 18 months | 36 months |
| Ignition Interlock | Required | Required |
| Reinstatement Requirements | SR-22 filing, fees, possible assessment | SR-22 filing, fees, possible assessment |
DUI Penalties & Consequences
Penalties for DUI Offenses in Utah
Penalties for DUIs in Utah become progressively severe with each conviction and vary based on your BAC level and whether anyone was injured:
First Offense
Jail Time: 48 hours to 180 days
Fines & Fees: $1,000 minimum
License Suspension: 120 days
IID Requirement: Mandatory for most cases
DUI Classes: Required
Probation: Typically 1 year
Second Offense
Jail Time: Up to 364 days
Fines & Fees: $1,560 2,500 minimum
License Suspension: 2 years
IID Requirement : Mandatory for most cases
DUI Classes: Required
Probation: Typically 1 year
Aggravating Factors That Increase Utah DUI Penalties
In Utah, these aggravating factors lead to elevated criminal charges, harsher fines, longer jail or prison time, extended license suspensions, and additional requirements:
- Having a passenger under 16 years old in the vehicle
- Causing bodily injury to another person
- Extremely high BAC levels (0.16% or higher)
- Driving under the influence in a school zone
- Previous DUI convictions within a 10-year period
- Refusing to submit to chemical testing
- Driving with a suspended or revoked license
- Excessive speeding while under the influence
Will a DUI conviction land you in jail?
Driving Without a Valid License
Driving with a suspended license in Utah is a serious offense that can complicate your legal troubles. If caught driving while your license is suspended for a DUI, you could face:
- Misdemeanor criminal charges
- Additional license suspension time
- Possible jail time
- Steep fines
- Ineligibility for a restricted license
- Increased insurance rates
- Potential vehicle impoundment
Aggravating factors and/or license violations make it more difficult for you to recover from your original DUI. These issues will extend the timeline for getting your full driving privileges restored. Courts and the DLD take these violations very seriously in Utah, and they can reset much of your progress toward license reinstatement.
License Suspension
Who Determines if You Can Continue Driving After an DUI
In Utah, two separate entities determine your driving privileges after a DUI:
Utah Driver License Division (DLD)
Handles administrative license suspension based on either test failure (BAC over the legal limit) or test refusal. This process is separate from court proceedings and happens quickly after arrest.
Utah Courts
As part of criminal sentencing, the court may impose additional license suspension or restrictions beyond what the DLD has already administered.
The administrative suspension through the DLD occurs independently of your criminal case, meaning you could have your license suspended even if your criminal DUI charges are later reduced or dismissed.
How Long Will Your License Be Suspended?
Getting your license suspended in Utah means you are no longer allowed to drive a vehicle, unless you obtain a temporary or restricted license during your suspension. Here’s how long your regular license may be suspended for a DUI in Utah:
| Offense | Under 21 Years Old | 21 Years and Older | Test Refusal |
| 1st Offense | Until 21 or 2 years (whichever is longer) | 120 days | 18 months |
| 2nd Offense | Until 21 or 36 months (whichever is longer) | 2 years | 36 months |
| 3rd Offense | Until age 21 or 3 years (whichever is longer) | 3 years | 36 months |
| 4th Offense | Until age 21 or 6 years (whichever is longer) | 6 years | 36 months |
Steps to Reinstate Your License
To reinstate your driver’s license after a DUI suspension in Utah, you must:
- Serve your full suspension period
- Pay reinstatement fees to the Utah DLD
- Provide proof of financial responsibility via SR-22 insurance filing
- Complete required education or treatment programs
- Install an IID if mandated by court or administrative order
- Pass any required written or driving tests
Restoring Your Driving Privileges
After a DUI conviction in Utah, there are specific paths to regaining some or all of your driving privileges. These options vary based on your offense history, compliance with court orders, and willingness to meet strict requirements.
Eligibility for an Employment/Program-Restricted Driver’s License
In Utah, you may be eligible for a restricted license that allows limited driving for essential purposes. To qualify, you generally must:
- Have served a portion of your suspension period
- Have no other suspensions or revocations on your record
- Install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle
- Provide proof of SR-22 certificate
- Pay all applicable fees and penalties
- Demonstrate a legitimate need for driving privileges
The Utah DLD provides information about eligibility requirements and application procedures for restricted licenses on their website.
How to Apply for Temporary Restricted Driver’s License
To apply for a temporary restricted driver’s license in Utah, you must:
- Install an IID on your vehicle
- Submit SR-22 as proof of insurance financial responsibility
- Provide need-based documentation (e.g., employment verification or medical necessity)
- Complete any required assessment or education programs
- Submit application to the Utah DLD and pay applicable fees
- Possibly appear for an interview or hearing
If granted, limited privileges typically allow driving only for specific purposes such as work, education, medical appointments, and court-ordered treatment programs.
Utah Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Requirements
Utah has strict IID requirements for DUI offenders. An ignition interlock device prevents your vehicle from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath.
Key requirements include:
- Installation in all vehicles you operate (with some exceptions)
- Regular maintenance and calibration
- Compliance with all program rules
- Payment of all installation and monthly fees
- Regular monitoring and reporting
- No attempts to tamper with or circumvent the device
The device must be installed by a certified provider, and you must present proof of installation to the Utah DLD to qualify for a restricted license or license reinstatement.
Selecting the right ignition interlock provider can make a world of difference.
SR-22 Insurance Requirements
After a DUI in Utah, you may need to file an SR-22 form with the state. This is not actually insurance, but rather a certificate your insurance company files to prove you have the minimum required coverage.
Key points about SR-22 in Utah:
- Must be maintained for 3 years in most cases
- Any lapse in coverage will be reported to the DLD
- Your license will be re-suspended if your SR-22 lapses
- Insurance rates typically increase significantly
- Some insurance companies specialize in providing competitive rates for non-standard (high-risk) drivers, such as those facing a drunk driving charge.
Let us help connect you to the right licensed insurance specialist for you.
Substance Abuse Evaluation and Treatment
Utah requires DUI offenders to undergo substance abuse screening, assessment, and potentially treatment. This typically involves:
- Initial screening through an approved provider
- Professional assessment of substance use patterns
- Treatment recommendations based on assessment results
- Completion of required education or treatment programs
- Documentation of completion for the court and DLD
Utah’s approved substance abuse education programs are designed to address alcohol and drug use issues and prevent future DUI incidents. The length and intensity of programs vary based on your assessment results and offense history.
Understand what to expect and how to prepare for a substance abuse evaluation.
FAQs About DUIs in Utah
How long will a DUI stay on your record in Utah?
A DUI conviction remains on your driving record for 10 years in Utah.
Can you refuse a breathalyzer test in Utah?
You can refuse, but Utah’s implied consent law means automatic license suspension for 18 months for a first refusal.
Will you need an ignition interlock device after a DUI in Utah?
Most DUI convictions in Utah require an IID, especially for restricted licenses.
How much does a DUI cost in Utah?
Between fines, fees, increased insurance, and other expenses, a first-time DUI typically costs $10,000 or more.
Sources
- Utah Courts. (n.d.). Traffic offenses. https://www.utcourts.gov/en/self-help/case-categories/criminal-justice/traffic.html
- Utah Driver License Division. (n.d.). Were you recently arrested for a DUI? https://dld.utah.gov/dui/
- FindLaw. (2023, December 22). What are the Utah DUI laws? https://www.findlaw.com/state/utah-law/what-are-the-utah-dui-laws.html
- National College for DUI Defense. (n.d.). Utah DUI laws. https://www.ncdd.com/utah-dui-laws
- Utah Driver License Division. (n.d.). Utah DUI suspension times. https://dld.utah.gov/dui-suspension-times/
- Utah Driver License Division. (n.d.). Ignition interlock device information. https://dld.utah.gov/iid/
- Utah Department of Health & Human Services, Substance Use and Mental Health. (n.d.). DUI classes. https://sumh.utah.gov/education/training/dui-classes/
- Utah Department of Public Safety, Utah Highway Safety Office. (n.d.). 24/7 Sobriety Program. https://highwaysafety.utah.gov/24-7/
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