How long does a DUI conviction stay on your driving record in South Carolina? This is a common concern that many first time offenders have after being charged. Understanding the difference between an arrest and a conviction is the starting point. A DUI conviction only occurs if someone pleads guilty or is found guilty after a trial. An arrest by itself is not a conviction.
In South Carolina, a DUI conviction creates a permanent criminal record that lasts a lifetime. There is no automatic removal and no waiting period for expungement. It will be on your record forever. Any background check or employment screening for the rest of your life will be effected. Even a first offense DUI, with no prior record and no accident involved, will stay on the criminal history forever once the court enters the conviction. This is one of the main reasons why many people seek legal representation as early as possible, especially those searching for Columbia SC DUI Defense or a Lexington SC Attorney.
South Carolina also maintains a separate driving record through the Department of Motor Vehicles. The DMV does not report DUI arrests. It only reports DUI convictions. This means that if your DUI charge is dismissed, reduced to a different offense, or otherwise resolved without a conviction, it will never appear on your driving record. This can make a major difference for employment, insurance, military service, and professional licensing.
The South Carolina DMV keeps two types of publicly available driving records, a 3 year report and a 10 year report. Many employers and insurance companies only review the 3 year version. This is why some people believe a DUI “falls off” after 3 years. In reality the DUI conviction can remain visible for up to 10 years on the longer report. Law enforcement, courts, and prosecutors normally review 10 year reports.
Insurance companies often use the 3 year report for pricing, but some use a longer window. This is different from the criminal record system, where the conviction stays forever.
Because of these long term consequences, many people want to know how they can prevent a DUI from being reported. The only way to avoid it is through a successful dismissal, reduction, or acquittal. If the case does not result in a conviction, the DMV never receives notice and the incident is never added to the driving record. This is why the legal strategy used early in the case can have lifelong consequences. To avoid a conviction, DUI cases must be challenged in court. PTI is not available for a DUI case. There are defense strategies that can help you avoid jail time, and fight for a reduction or dismissal in any situation.
A DUI conviction in South Carolina is serious, but the outcome is not predetermined. If you have questions about how a conviction may affect your future or if you want to discuss possible defenses, today is the right time to speak us about your case.. All cases are unique, and prior results obtained by the attorney in one matter do not indicate similar results can be obtained for other clients in other matters. To schedule your consultation, call (803) 359-3301. Same day appointments are typically available. If your license was taken by the police at the time of your arrest, we can help you quickly restore your driving privileges, often filing the necessary paperwork within the first hour of representation. Contact us for more information.