In Tennessee, DUI law defines drunk driving or driving under the influence as the operation of a motor vehicle on any freeway, public road, street alley, etc…  while under the influence of alcohol or drug (legal prescription drug or illegal substances).

The state of Tennessee will ’look back’ on prior DUI convictions for a period of up to 10 years when determining which number offense you are being charged with.  So any additional offenses within a 10 year period will result in a multiple offense.

Here is what you can expect as far as punishments for DUI offenses in Tennessee:

1st offense TN DUI:  Fine will be about $350 up to $1,500; jail term up to 48 hours, and a drivers license suspension for 1 year, however the courts may grant a restricted driving privilege allowing driving from to/from and during the course of employment.  In addition you will be required to attend and complete a licensed DUI School for alcohol assessment/evaluation and education.

2nd Offense TN DUI:  Minimum jail sentence of 45 days and the total normally adds up to approx. 11 months and 29 days (minus time already served) which under mild case conditions can be served on probation.  Fines are from $600 up to $3,500.  Drivers license is suspended for a period of 1 year and there is no restricted privileges granted during the 1 year period.

Please reference our other Tennessee DUI law information and check back here for more updates as TN law changes. 

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