Delaware DUI Costs (2026)
State-specific DUI cost calculators, law summaries, and guides for Delaware.
Calculate your Delaware DUI costOn our estimates, a typical first-offense DUI in Delaware costs about $21,558, the 15th highest of the 50 states (median of our state estimates: $17,615). Use the calculators below for your own situation.
Delaware DUI Key Facts
Delaware DUI Calculators
Delaware DUI FAQ
How much does a DUI cost in Delaware?
Add up the fine ($500-$1,500), attorney fees (our estimate: $1,500-$5,000), insurance, ignition interlock, education, reinstatement and time off work, and our calculator puts a typical first-offense DUI in Delaware at about $21,558, within a range of $11,571 to $34,330, using its default answers. Use the calculator for an estimate based on your own situation.
What is the legal DUI term in Delaware?
Delaware uses the term "DUI" for impaired driving offenses. The legal BAC limit is 0.08% for adults, with enhanced penalties at 0.15% BAC.
How long is your license suspended for a first DUI in Delaware?
A first-offense DUI in Delaware carries a license suspension of 1 year (365 days), and a second offense carries a license suspension of 1 year (540 days). Whether you can keep driving on a restricted license during that time is covered below.
Is an ignition interlock device required in Delaware?
Yes. Delaware requires an ignition interlock device for 4 months following a first DUI conviction. We estimate the monthly cost at about $75.
Does Delaware require SR-22 insurance after a DUI?
Yes. Delaware requires SR-22 high-risk insurance filing for 3 years following a DUI conviction. We estimate the typical premium increase at 50-100%.
When does a DUI become a felony in Delaware?
In Delaware, a DUI becomes a felony on the third offense within 10 years. Other factors, such as an injury, can also change how a case is charged; an attorney can tell you how they apply in Delaware.
Can a DUI be expunged in Delaware?
Delaware does not allow DUI convictions to be expunged. Some states have other ways to limit who can see a record, such as sealing, which this site does not cover yet; an attorney in Delaware can tell you whether any apply.
How long do you have to request a license hearing after a DUI arrest in Delaware?
In Delaware, you have 15 days from the date of the suspension notice to request a hearing on your license (21 Del. C. § 2742(d)). The notice you received at arrest gives the exact date.
How long does Delaware have to charge you with a DUI?
In Delaware, the state generally must file DUI charges within 2 years of the alleged offense. This deadline reflects a first-offense misdemeanor DUI; felony cases can carry a different filing window. If you are charged, an attorney can confirm how the deadline applies to your case.
Can you get a hardship or restricted license after a DUI in Delaware?
Delaware generally offers a hardship or restricted license that can let you keep driving for work, school, or treatment during part of a DUI suspension. Eligibility and conditions depend on your offense level and the court, so confirm the current rules for your situation.
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