If you’ve been arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence), one of your biggest concerns might be how it affects your future. A common question is: “Will a DUI show up on my criminal record?” The short answer is yes, in most cases. A DUI conviction becomes part of your criminal history and can affect your job, housing, and even travel. But there are exceptions and ways to limit the damage. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Is a Criminal Record?
Your criminal record is a list of any arrests, charges, or convictions you’ve had. Employers, landlords, schools, and government agencies often check this record when making decisions about you. Criminal records are usually kept by state agencies and law enforcement.
Some offenses—like traffic tickets—don’t appear on your criminal record. But a DUI is more than just a traffic violation. It’s usually treated as a criminal offense, which means it does go on your record.
How a DUI Gets on Your Record
If you’re arrested for DUI and later convicted, the conviction will appear on your criminal record. This includes:
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The charge (such as DUI or DWI)
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The date of arrest and conviction
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The court’s decision (guilty, no contest, etc.)
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Any penalties (jail time, fines, probation)
Even if you’re not convicted, the arrest itself may still show up in a background check unless you take steps to have it removed.
First-Time DUI Offense
A first-time DUI is usually a misdemeanor in most states, not a felony. But it still goes on your record unless you qualify for special programs (like diversion) or get the case dismissed.
Felony DUI
If your DUI caused serious injury, involved a child passenger, or followed multiple past offenses, it may be charged as a felony. Felonies stay on your record even longer and can bring more serious consequences.
Background Checks and DUI Records
Most background checks for jobs, housing, or college will include a criminal record search. That means if you have a DUI conviction, it can show up when:
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You apply for a new job
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You try to rent an apartment
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You apply for a professional license (like nursing, teaching, or law)
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You want to volunteer at certain organizations
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You apply for immigration or citizenship
Some employers may still hire you after a DUI, especially if it’s a first offense and you’ve completed your sentence. But others may see it as a red flag, especially if the job involves driving or working with children.
How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record?
In most states, a DUI stays on your criminal record permanently unless you take legal steps to remove it.
However, some states have “lookback periods”—a set number of years that a DUI counts against you for future charges. For example:
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In California, a DUI stays on your record for 10 years for charging purposes.
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In Texas, a DUI conviction stays on your criminal record forever unless expunged or sealed.
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In Florida, DUIs cannot be expunged and stay on your record permanently.
Even if the lookback period ends, the DUI may still appear on some background checks.
Can You Remove a DUI from Your Record?
In some cases, yes—you may be able to remove or hide a DUI from your criminal record through:
1. Expungement
Expungement means erasing the record of your conviction, as if it never happened. Rules vary by state. You may qualify for expungement if:
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It was your first offense
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You completed all penalties (probation, classes, etc.)
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You haven’t been in trouble since the DUI
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Your state allows expungement of DUI cases
Not all states allow DUI expungement, and some only allow it for dismissed charges or certain pleas.
2. Record Sealing
Sealing your record doesn’t erase it but makes it invisible to the public. Employers and landlords won’t see it, but courts and law enforcement still can.
Again, the rules depend on your state and whether you were convicted or just arrested.
What If You’re Found Not Guilty?
If you were arrested for DUI but found not guilty, the arrest record may still exist. That means your name could still show up in public searches or background checks unless you:
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Ask the court to expunge or seal the arrest record
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Follow your state’s legal process for clearing the record
It’s important to act quickly. If you’re found not guilty, talk to a DUI lawyer about clearing your name fully.
How to Check Your Own Record
If you want to know what others see, you can request a copy of your criminal record from:
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Your state’s Department of Justice
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Your local police department
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Online background check services
Checking your record helps you stay informed and gives you a chance to fix any errors.
Conclusion
Yes, a DUI usually shows up on your criminal record—and it can stay there for life unless you take legal action. A DUI conviction can affect jobs, housing, education, and more. But depending on your state and your case, you may have options to clear or seal the record. If you’re facing a DUI or dealing with one from the past, talk to a lawyer about protecting your future. A clean record can open more doors and help you move forward with confidence.
