The length of time a DUI stays on your record varies significantly by state and jurisdiction, but generally:

• In most U.S. states, a DUI stays on your driving record for 3 to 10 years. For example, California keeps a DUI on your driving record for 10 years starting from the date of arrest

• Some states have much longer durations: Florida keeps DUIs on your record for 75 years , and Illinois keeps them permanently

• Several states have lifetime or permanent DUI records, meaning the conviction can affect you indefinitely unless you take legal steps like expungement or record suspension

• The "look-back period," during which prior DUIs affect penalties for new offenses, typically ranges from 5 to 10 years , but some states have lifetime look-back periods

• In Canada (Ontario), a DUI can remain on your criminal record indefinitely unless you obtain a record suspension (pardon). On your driving record, a first DUI with license suspension stays for 6 years, without suspension for 3 years, and subsequent DUIs stay permanently

Summary of DUI Record Duration Examples

Location| DUI Record Duration on Driving Record| DUI Criminal Record Duration
---|---|---
California| 10 years| Eligible for expungement after sentence
Florida| 75 years| No expungement allowed
Illinois| Permanent| Permanent
Arizona| Permanent| Permanent (unless sealed by court)
Ontario (Canada)| 3-6 years (driving record)| Potentially permanent unless pardoned

Important Notes

• Expungement or record suspension options vary by state and country; some allow removal of DUI records after a period, others do not

• A DUI on your record can impact insurance rates, employment, and legal penalties for years to come

• Always check the specific laws in your state or province for precise information.

In conclusion, a DUI can stay on your record anywhere from a few years to permanently, depending on where you were convicted and whether you pursue legal remedies like expungement or record suspension