2025 How Much Does A DUI Cost in Rhode Island?

The financial cost can be significant if you are charged with Driving Under the Influence in Rhode Island in 2025. In fact, the cost of this charge may affect various aspects of your life. The penalties for DUI offenses vary in severity depending on the particulars of the offense, whether there are aggravating factors, and the number of prior convictions. Many people facing these charges ask, “How much does a DUI cost in Rhode Island?”

The total cost for the DUI comes from a variety of different elements, including fines, fees, legal costs, and other potential financial consequences.

Fines and Court Costs for a DUI in Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, the fines for a DUI conviction vary depending on whether it is a first offense or a repeat offense.

These fines and costs may look like the following:

• First Offense DUI: A first-time offender can expect to pay fines ranging from $100 to $400, depending on the details of the case and whether the BAC is above the legal limit of 0.08%. The court may also impose additional costs, as well as court fees. The exact cost depends on the case itself.
• Second Offense DUI: The fines for a second DUI offense typically range from $400 to $1,000, depending on the specific circumstances. Court fees for a second offense are generally higher than for a first offense.
• Third and Subsequent Offenses: A third DUI offense carries fines of $1,000 to $5,000, with higher fines imposed for cases involving injuries or property damage. Third and subsequent offenses come with an increase in court fees as well.

License Suspension and Reinstatement Fees in Rhode Island

Whenever a driver is convicted of driving under the influence in Rhode Island, losing their license will be part of the consequences. The severity of the offense, as well as if the offender has a past criminal history of driving under the influence, will depict how long the license is suspended.

The Adjudication Office of the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles handles the reinstatement of driving privileges. The motorist may reinstate their driver’s license once they have satisfied all court-ordered suspension requisitions and any DMV suspension requirements.

Alcohol Education and Treatment Programs in Rhode Island

A DUI conviction in Rhode Island often requires offenders to attend alcohol education and treatment programs, in addition to fines, court costs, and license-related expenses. These programs address the offender’s drinking habits to hopefully reduce the likelihood of a repeat offense.

The cost for an alcohol education program is roughly $350, and the cost of an alcohol treatment program is generally much more, as these types of programs are longer and more intense. Failure to complete the assigned program may result in additional fines and consequences.

Increase in Insurance Costs in Rhode Island

There will likely be a significant increase in car insurance premiums after a DUI conviction in Rhode Island. This long-term financial consequence will depend on the severity of the case, the type of insurance the offender carries, and whether or not this is a repeat occurrence. It is important to understand that insurance companies will likely consider the individual a high-risk driver and increase their premiums substantially after a DUI conviction.

Legal Fees for Driving Under the Influence in Rhode Island

Hiring a skilled DUI defense attorney can be one of the largest expenses associated with a DUI conviction. The complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the local market all factor into the total costs. Someone who is a repeat offender can expect to pay more in legal fees than someone who doesn’t have a criminal past.

If the case goes to trial, the cost of legal fees may increase substantially, as the attorney will need to invest more time in the case to prepare for court. Investigations, professional witnesses, and other trial-related expenses can push the total cost even higher.

Possible Jail Time for DUIs in Rhode Island

There are some circumstances where a DUI offender may face jail time in Rhode Island. Typically, first-time offenders will face probation or community service. Individuals who are considered repeat offenders or those who have a high BAC or aggravating circumstances may face jail time.

The length of jail time for a DUI conviction in Rhode Island varies depending on all these factors. A jail conviction comes with other associated costs, such as loss of employment.

Other Costs Associated With DUIs in Rhode Island

There are many other costs that are associated with DUIs in Rhode Island. If the state chooses to have the individual’s vehicle impounded, there will be a cost to retrieve the vehicle. There may also be employment consequences and costs, such as loss of job or a mark on the person’s reputation, making future employment hard to find.

If the DUI caused an accident or something similar, the individual may be liable for damages, such as any injuries they caused or property damage.

DUI Cost FAQs

Q: How Much Does a DUI Cost in Rhode Island?

A: The total cost of a DUI conviction in Rhode Island varies depending on the factors of the case. However, a person convicted of a DUI can expect to pay a substantial amount of money, as well as undergo emotional and physical stress. Financial costs will be associated with fines, legal fees, and consequential fees.

Q: What Is the Penalty for a DUI in Rhode Island?

A: The penalty for a DUI in Rhode Island depends on the particulars of the case. If a person is a first-time offender and their BAC is on the lower end, they can expect to have a much lesser penalty than someone who is a repeat offender or someone who has a significantly high BAC. Whether or not the person caused an accident or caused any property damages will also be reflected in the penalty.

Q: How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in Rhode Island?

A: Whether a person is convicted of a misdemeanor DUI charge or a felony DUI charge in Rhode Island will determine how long it stays on their permanent record. For most cases, a misdemeanor conviction will stay on a person’s record for up to five years, and a felony conviction will stay on an individual’s record for up to ten years.

Q: What Is the Difference Between a DUI and a DWI in Rhode Island?

A: Both a DUI and DWI are traffic violations, but in Rhode Island, they each have their own set of associated laws and how the driver can be convicted. The state’s statute considers a DUI a criminal offense, while violations under DWI laws are not criminal offenses, and therefore, the driver cannot be jailed.

Contact Our Criminal Defense Law Firm

Ellison Law LLC is a criminal defense law firm that is experienced in handling a variety of criminal defense cases including those associated with driving under the influence. Our Rhode Island criminal defense lawyers are well-versed in local and state laws, and have the resources needed to create a tailored defense strategy to help you through your case. If you are facing a DUI conviction, contact our office today so we may begin discussing your case.