Reader’s Question:

I was convicted of DUI in Pennsylvania. How long does it stay on my record?

George

Bethlehem, PA

It’s terrible to be convicted with DUI and unfortunately, a DUI in Pennsylvania stays on your driving record for 7 years. Pennsylvania started enforcing a new Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Law in 2003. The new law just created a tiered approach toward DUI enforcement and treatment, by including many changes to the terms of suspension, fines, penalties, and other requirements. This new law focuses on treatment for first-time DUI offenders rather than suspension and punishment.

Strictly speaking, licensing requirements and penalties are determined by the combination of an individual’s Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level and prior offenses. There are three levels of DUI in Pennsylvania: General Impairment (.08 to .099% BAC), High BAC (.10 to .159% BAC), and Highest BAC (.16% and higher).

You see, under this new law on DUI, school vehicle or bus drivers, commercial drivers, minors, and offenders involved in an accident that causes property damage or injures someone may be subject to the high BAC penalties even if their BAC is not in the high category.

It might be best for you to check on the latest legislations about Pennsylvania to verify the duration your DUI stays on your record since laws on DUI have become more stringent in PA in the last few years.