As harsh as the penalties are for a first DUI conviction in Florida, the consequences are far worse if you are convicted a second time within five years. For example, instead of a 90-day to one-year revocation of your driver’s license, you face a five-year revocation.
 
Rather than assuming you will never get a second DUI conviction, it’s important to do everything you can to avoid a first conviction.
 
What are the penalties for a first DUI conviction in Florida?
 
The penalties for a first DUI conviction are:
 

Driver’s license revocation of from 180 days to one year with a possibility of a hardship license to drive to and from work

From $500 to $1,000 fine

While jail time is not mandatory, the judge can order a jail sentence of up to six months

 
The penalties are higher if you have a minor in the vehicle or you have a BAC of .15 or higher. You may also face higher insurance rates and employment consequences.
 
What are the penalties for a second DUI conviction?
 
The penalties for a second DUI conviction are:
 

Driver’s license revocation for five years, with no hardship license for the first 12 months

From $1,000 to $2,000 fine

Jail time of from 10 days to nine months

 
The penalties are higher if you have a minor in the vehicle or you have a BAC of .15 or higher.
 
How can I avoid a DUI conviction?
 
The best way to avoid a drunk-driving conviction is to hire a cab or use a designated driver if you consume alcohol before driving. If it’s too late to avoid arrest, contact an experienced DUI defense attorney as soon as possible. Just because you failed field sobriety or breath test does not mean the state can convict you of drunk driving.