Unfortunately, the cost of a DUI is very high. This article will summarize some of the costs that you can anticipate, as well as give you helpful links to find out more. Your attorney can also advise you on the costs to be anticipated, and can help you prepare for the road ahead.
- Impound Fees. If your vehicle was impounded, you will be on the hook for administrative fees, plus the cost of towing and storage. The administrative fee depends on where the vehicle was impounded, but for instance, the cost in Vacaville can be $234. (See https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/dl/fees/miscdl_fees#misc_duireissue). Also, be aware that the vehicle can only be released to the Registered Owner. However, if the owner is incarcerated, then the jail can provide a Vehicle Release Form.
- Driver’s License Fees. These vary depending on the age of the driver, and whether it is a first or second offense, but to give you an idea of the ballpark the Reissue Admin Fee for a Driver over 21, is $125. This link will give you the specifics: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/dl/fees/miscdl_fees#misc_duireissue.
- Bail Fees. If you have been incarcerated, you can anticipate a bail bonsdmen fee. The way it works is that the court sets the bail. The bonds company charges you a fee (usually a percentage of the amount of bail), and then the bonds company pays the full amount to the court. When you appear at your hearing, the bonds company receives their money back, but they earned the fee.
- Court Fines. These can run you at least $2,000. According to the Yolo County Sentencing Guidelines for Infractions and Misdemeanors, Effective August 25, 2016, the minimum fine to be imposed for a DUI is $1958.
- Other Miscellaneous Court Fines and Fees. The Court will likely impose misc. fines and fees which total at least $300, depending on the jurisdiction. See the excerpt below from the Yolo County Sentencing Guidelines for Infractions and Misdemeanors, Effective August 25, 2016.
Counseling – The amount of counseling ordered and the cost of the classes varies, but a conservative estimate would be at least $200 for counseling and classes.- Restitution – If the DUI involved an accident, the court may order restitution, which means that you will have to pay for the damages incurred by the other driver.
- Interlock – An interlock device is placed in your car so that your breath alcohol level is checked before you can drive. The cost can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle and the company you choose. One company surveyed charged a $60 installation fee and 69.95 plus tax per month.
- Insurance – Automobile insurance rates are higher for those who have been convicted of a DUI. To reinstate your license after a DUI, you will have to file a Proof of Insurance Certificate (SR-22). These sites can give you more information about the insurance needed. https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/?1dmy&urile=wcm:path:/dmv_content_en/dmv/pubs/brochures/fast_facts/ffdl35
