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Utah DUI Laws

Utah Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Laws

If you've been drinking alcohol and decide to drive your car in "The Beehive State," you are putting yourself and others at risk. Because of the possible consequences of injuring or killing another person, Utah has strict driving under the influence (DUI) laws. You will be facing stiff penalties including loss of your driving privileges, possible jail time, and more.

Types of Utah DUI Offenses

Under Utah's DUI laws, an impaired driving charge can be levied against you in the following circumstances:

  • You are operating a motor vehicle with any amount of alcohol or drugs in your system and it impairs your ability to safely operate the vehicle.
  • You are operating a motor vehicle with a breath or blood alcohol level (BAC) of .05 or higher.
  • You are under the age of 21 and have consumed any alcohol (Zero Tolerance)

Alcohol Restricted Driver

In Utah, if you you've been convicted of a DUI or a refusal to submit to a chemical blood alcohol (BAC) test, you will be on an alcohol restricted driving privilege (ARD). What does that mean? It's simple -- you are not allowed to drive with ANY alcohol in your system for a period of time. Here is the breakdown based upon the violation:

  • Two years for a first-time DUI, alcohol related reckless driving, or per se arrest;
  • Five years for first arrest for refusal to submit to a chemical test;
  • Ten years for a second conviction for DUI or alcohol related reckless driving or a second arrest for refusal to submit to a chemical test within ten years of a first offense;
  • Lifetime for felony DUI or automobile homicide.

If you are under 21 years of age, then (ARD) status is triggered until the driver turns 21 years old.

What if I Violate the 'No Alcohol Restriction?'

If you decide not to follow the ARD mandate, it will result in a one year revocation of your Utah driving privilege. Remember, police officers have access to your driving records and will know if an ARD is in effect for you.

This chart lays out the basics of Utah's DUI laws:

Utah DUI Laws: Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits and Implied Consent

"Per Se" BAC Limit 0.05 Percent
Zero Tolerance (Underage) BAC Limit 0.02 Percent
Enhanced Penalty (Aggravated) BAC Limit 0.16 Percent
Implied Consent to Submit to BAC Test? Yes
 

Utah DUI Laws: Select Penalties

Minimum License Suspension or Revocation (1st, 2nd, 3rd offense) 120 days, 2 years, 2 years
Mandatory Alcohol Education, Assessment and Treatment Both
Vehicle Confiscation Possible? Yes
Ignition Interlock Device Possible? Yes

Utah DUI Resources:

Arrested under Utah DUI Laws? Get in Touch with an Attorney

No one wants to get arrested for a DUI. But if you or someone you love has been arrested and charged with a Utah DUI, you'll want someone on your side. A good first step is to seek out the services of a skilled DUI lawyer in Utah to evaluate your case and inform you of your options moving forward.

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You Don’t Have To Solve This on Your Own – Get a Lawyer’s Help

Meeting with a lawyer can help you understand your options and how to best protect your rights. Visit our attorney directory to find a lawyer near you who can help.

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Next Steps

Contact a qualified DUI attorney to make sure your rights are protected.

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Help Me Find a Do-It-Yourself Solution

Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?

  • Complex DUI situations usually require a lawyer
  • DUI defense attorneys can challenge Breathalyzer/Intoxilyzer or blood test results
  • A lawyer can seek to reduce or eliminate DUI penalties
  • A lawyer can help get your license back

Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many attorneys offer free consultations.

 

 If you need an attorney, find one right now.

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