Either obvious impairment or blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher can result in a arrest for driving under the influence in Georgia. Motorists who drive on the state’s roads also face penalties for refusing a roadside sobriety test.
These are the state sentencing guidelines for DUI convictions, which vary depending on the circumstances of the case.
No previous DUIs
First-time offenders are subject to:
- 12-month license suspension with $210 fee for reinstatement
- $300 to $1,000 in fines
- Up to 12 months in jail
- Mandatory minimum of 40 hours of community service
One prior DUI
Georgia uses a five-year lookback period for DUI sentencing. A second conviction may result in:
- 36-month license suspension with $210 fee for reinstatement
- $600 to $1,000 in fines
- Mandatory minimum of 48 hours and up to 12 months in jail
- Mandatory minimum of 30 days of community service
- Mandatory substance use evaluation and treatment if indicated
Two prior DUIs
A third DUI in five years carries these penalties:
- Five-year license suspension with $210 fee for reinstatement
- $1,000 to $5,000 in fines
- Mandatory minimum of 15 days and up to 12 months in jail
- Mandatory minimum of 30 days of community service
- Mandatory substance use evaluation and treatment if indicated
- Seizure of the person’s vehicle license plate
- Habitual DUI offender newspaper ad at the offender’s expense
Drivers should also understand the additional alcohol-related laws in Georgia. For example, the state has an open container law that results in an additional fine. Some offenders may qualify for diversion programs such as drug court.