DUI Penalties in Nevada

Jesse Kalter • June 24, 2022


DUI Penalties are Very Strict in Nevada

Prosecutors regularly seek the harshest DUI penalties possible to keep the streets of Nevada safe. If you are convicted of a second or third DUI, penalties get more and more harsh. These penalties are not just limited to an alcohol-related DUI. DUI convictions also happen if a person is caught driving under the influence of marijuana, illicit drugs, or prescription drugs. There are several defenses for a DUI, but to achieve the best possible outcome, it is highly recommended to consult with a DUI attorney.

Penalties for a Nevada DUI



First Offense DUI/Misdemeanor DUI

If convicted of a first offense DUI a person may have to:



  • Serve 2 days to 6 months in jail
  • Pay up to $1,000 in fines
  • Take mandatory alcohol classes
  • Lose license for 185 days or install a Breath Interlock Device in the vehicle


Second DUI Charge

Once convicted of a second DUI someone may have to:



  • Serve 10 days to 6 months in jail
  • Pay up to $1,000 in fines
  • Lose their license for one year or install a Breath Interlock Device in the vehicle
  • Take mandatory drug/alcohol dependency evaluation


Second DUI Charge

Someone can be charged with a felony DUI charge for three reasons.


  1. They have had two prior DUI convictions in the last seven years
  2. They substantially hurt or killed someone during the DUI
  3. They have already had a prior felony DUI conviction


Once convicted of a felony DUI charge a person may have to:


  • Serve 1 to 6 years in prison
  • Pay up to $5,000 in fines
  • Lose of their license for 3 years


If the DUI caused death or substantial bodily harm, then a person can:


  • Serve a 2 to 20 year prison sentence


If the DUI conviction follows a previous felony conviction: 



  • Serve a 2 to 15 year prison sentence


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