Getting a DUI feels overwhelming enough without thinking about the money involved. However, the financial impact goes way beyond the initial penalties. Let’s break down the actual costs you might face after a DUI in Illinois.
Court fines and legal fees hit first
The base fine for a first-time DUI in Illinois starts at $500 and can reach $2,500. For third-time offenders, courts can hit you with a maximum of $25,000 in fines.
Court costs and mandatory evaluation fees can reach thousands of dollars as well.
Yearly insurance rates go up
After a DUI conviction, your car insurance rates can skyrocket. The jump in annual premiums can start at $300 for the more affordable policies. But that’s if you only have one DUI record.
If you have multiple DUI convictions or hold a policy from one of the more expensive insurers, the yearly rates can potentially increase by $3,000 or more.
Missing work equals missing pay
Between court appearances, alcohol education classes and community service, you’ll need time off work. That could mean:
- Lost wages from multiple court dates and mandatory counseling sessions
- Reduced income if you lose your professional license
- Transportation costs when your license gets suspended
These work-related expenses can run anywhere between $2,000 to $5,000.
Other penalty expenses add up fast
The ignition interlock device alone costs between $50 and $150 to install. After that, you still have to pay for the monthly device lease, calibration costs and processing fees.
Factor in mandatory classes, license reinstatement and other miscellaneous fees, and you can face an additional thousand or more in expenses.
Build a strong defense to protect your finances
The numbers don’t lie: a DUI in Illinois can cost $20,000 or more when you add everything up. This financial burden affects not just your bank account but your quality of life going forward. Building a strong defense from day one isn’t just about avoiding conviction—it’s about protecting your financial future.