Kentucky DUI Penalties — Fines, Jail & Probation
Common consequences to discuss with counsel.
First offense §189A.010
A first DUI in Kentucky is classified as a Class B misdemeanor.
- Jail: 48 hours minimum to 30 days maximum
- Fine: $200 to $500
- License suspension: 90 days to 6 months
- Substance abuse program: alcohol or substance abuse education program and assessment required
- Community service: 48-hour community labor may substitute for mandatory jail
- Probation: available
Second offense
- Jail: 7 days minimum to 6 months maximum
- Fine: $350 to $500
- License suspension: 12 to 18 months
Third and subsequent offenses
- Jail/prison: 30 days minimum to 12 months maximum
- Fine: $500 to $1,000
- License suspension: 24 to 36 months
- Felony threshold: fourth offense within 10 years is a Class D felony (1-5 years prison)
Penalty comparison by offense tier
Lookback period
Kentucky uses a 10 years Lookback period to determine how prior offenses affect sentencing. Only DUI convictions within this window count toward the escalating penalty tiers.
Enhanced penalties for aggravating factors
- BAC ≥ 0.15 (mandatory 4-day jail for first offense)
- Speeding 30+ mph over limit
- Wrong way on divided highway
- Child under 12 in vehicle
- Causing accident resulting in injury
What these penalties mean in practice
Mandatory minimums cannot be suspended or reduced by the judge — they must be served. Fines do not include surcharges, court costs, and program fees, which can substantially increase the total financial impact. License suspension affects employment, insurance rates, and daily logistics.
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Frequently Asked Questions
General answers to common questions. Specific outcomes depend on your facts and timing.
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