Generally, a first-offense conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) in Illinois is a Class A misdemeanor. The penalties include court supervision for at least one year, 100 hours of community service, a $500 fine, and a temporary driver's license suspension while the case is pending. Here is what happens for multiple convictions of this serious offense.

3 Consequences if You Have More Than One DUI in Illinois

1. Second Offense

A second DUI conviction is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by at least five days in jail or 240 hours of community service, with maximum jail time of one year. Other penalties include a maximum fine of $2,500 and suspension of the driver's license. Additional fines, fees, and jail time are possible under circumstances that involve carrying a passenger younger than 16 years or driving without insurance. 

2. Third Offense & Beyond

Three or more DUI convictions are sentenced as felonies. A third conviction carries three to seven years in jail, fines up to $25,000, and license suspension for at least ten years. Penalties increase for four or more convictions or circumstances, including causing an injury while driving through a school zone or driving without a license.

3. Penalties for Drivers Under Age 21

Under the Zero Tolerance Law,  drivers under the age of 21 receive a three-month suspension of driving privileges if they are arrested with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of more than 0.00%; they receive a one-year suspension on a second arrest. When underage drivers refuse a BAC test or fail to complete it the first time, their driving privileges are suspended for six months. A second refusal carries a two-year suspension. Drivers under age 21 convicted of a DUI for the first time face the revocation of their driving privileges for at least two years.

If you face DUI charges, seek advice from an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. Larry J. Keller Attorney at Law of Waterloo, IL, can help you mount a vigorous defense or negotiate a plea in your best interest. This lawyer has over 30 years of experience protecting the rights of individuals accused of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. For more about his practice areas, visit the website. Call (618) 939-8999 to schedule a consultation for planning your legal strategy.