Penalties for DUI offenses in the state of Tennessee get progressively more intense with each violation, with prison time and fine amounts steadily increasing with each subsequent conviction.

Regardless of the number of repeated offenses, certain penalties can occur with each conviction. Every DUI, even the very first offense, includes the possibilities of jail time, fines, restitution of damages to any victims (bodily harm, property damage, and mental distress may all be considered), the loss of driving privileges, and mandatory participation in an alcohol or drug treatment program.

Second offenses and up can also include the penalty of  possible use of an ignition interlock device, or an IID. These devices work in tandem with restricted driver’s licenses, which can be granted to individuals convicted of a DUI that have lost access to their regular driver’s license.

IIDs require the drivers to submit to a breathalyzer test using a portable testing system whenever they want to get behind the wheel, essentially requiring the driver to “unlock” the car by successfully completing a breathalyzer test. The court may also require the driver to purchase and maintain the device.

Penalties By Number of Offense

These are the current penalties for DUIs in the state of Tennessee, according to the state’s website. Furthermore a DUI charge can be further compounded by additional charges of varying degrees. For example, a driver committing a DUI can also be charged with property damage or vehicular homicide if the driver is perceived to be responsible for a death as a result of driving under the influence.