Nevada DUI Laws

Fatal drunk driving accidents in the state of Nevada occur at a rate of approximately 268 per year. This places Nevada at number 30 on the list of the worst places for fatal drunk driving accidents in the U.S. Although not at the top of the list, Nevada is doing everything it can to reduce the number of drunk driving accidents that regularly occur on its roads. For starters, Nevada does not treat alcohol, prescription drugs, and illegal drugs any different. If you get caught driving under the influence of any intoxicant or substance that impairs your driving ability, you will be arrested and your license will be suspended on the spot.

What is the blood alcohol content level (BAC) limit in the state of Nevada?

In the state of Nevada, it is a crime to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Sentence enhancements exist for cases involving a BAC of 0.15% or higher or illegal substances such as marijuana or cocaine.

In the state of Nevada what is the administrative license suspension period for a first offense?

In the state of Nevada, if you get arrested for DUI, the administrative license suspension time for a first offense is 3 months. Under administrative license suspension, the drivers’ license will be taken before conviction when he either fails or refuses to be tested for alcohol or drugs. During the 3-month revocation period, the driver may obtain a limited license after 45 days.

In the state of Nevada, what are the penalties for a first DUI offense? Second offense?

A first DUI conviction carries a minimum jail sentence of 48 hours-180 days. Your license will be suspended for a minimum of 90 days, and you will have to do community service (TBD at sentencing). In addition, the judge may order alcohol treatment at your own expense. Fines range from $100-$1,000. For a second offense (within 7 years), your license will be revoked for 12 months and you will have to spend up to 180 days in jail or on house arrest. Fines range from $750-$1,000.

For third and fourth convictions, you will serve anywhere from 1-6 years in prison (3rd) or 2-20 years on prison (4th). Your license will be suspended for 3 years, and you will have to pay fines totaling $2,000-$5,000. Your vehicle registration may be suspended, and you will be ordered to attend a substance-abuse treatment program for up to one year. Additional fees for all offenses include a minimum:

• $65 driver license reinstatement fee
• $35 Victims Compensation Civil Penalty
• $21.75 driver license application fee