A first DUI charge in Tennessee can affect your license, your wallet and your record. Knowing the core penalties helps you plan your next steps and avoid surprises.
What a first DUI can include
For a first conviction, you may face jail time, fines and a one-year license suspension. Tennessee also uses ignition interlock and education requirements to reduce repeat offenses.
According to Tennessee Code § 55-10-401, once the state proves you were “under the influence,” first-offense sentencing may include these baseline penalties. You could face the following on a first conviction:
- Jail time: From 48 hours up to 11 months 29 days.
- Higher BAC: A BAC of 0.20% or more triggers 7 consecutive days.
- License suspension: One year.
- Fines: $350 to $1,500.
- Ignition interlock device: At least 365 days unless the court waives it.
These penalties can vary based on your facts and any court orders.
Mandatory and potential add-ons
Courts use T.C.A. § 55-10-401’s definition as the starting point then tailor conditions that promote safety and rehabilitation in your case. Courts often add requirements that affect your schedule and costs:
- Education or panels: DUI school or a victim impact panel.
- Fees: $100 alcohol and drug addiction fee.
- Probation: Up to 11 months 29 days, minus jail time.
- Community work: Court-ordered service.
- Monitoring or treatment: Alcohol monitoring or counseling.
- Restitution: Payment to anyone who suffered injury or loss.
You may also face a separate implied consent issue if you refused testing. Tennessee sets a low tolerance for impaired driving to deter crashes and repeat offenses. Mandatory jail time, license loss and interlock can reduce reoffending. A higher BAC floor for extra jail time signals increased risk so courts may add conditions that focus on safety and rehabilitation.
Special circumstances and options
Vehicle forfeiture may occur in unusual aggravated cases. Some first offenders might access diversion or alternative sentencing focused on treatment. Eligibility depends on your history, BAC and case facts.
You may have defenses, eligibility for a restricted license or ways to limit penalties. A Tennessee attorney can review your stop, testing and deadlines so you can protect your license and record.