Being arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Utah can be overwhelming. In addition to potential criminal charges, drivers may face immediate administrative consequences that affect their license, vehicle, and driving privileges. Understanding what happens after a DUI arrest can help you prepare for the legal process and protect your rights.



Because Utah has some of the strictest DUI laws in the country—including a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.05%—it is important to take these charges seriously and act quickly.

Immediate Consequences After a DUI Arrest

After a DUI arrest in Utah, several things may happen right away. Law enforcement officers may:

• Confiscate your driver’s license
• Impound your vehicle
• Issue a temporary driving permit
• Provide paperwork outlining the charges and administrative process

These actions can occur even before your criminal court case begins.

Your Driver’s License May Be Confiscated

If a chemical test shows a BAC of 0.05% or higher, or if you refuse to take the test, Utah law enforcement may confiscate your driver’s license on the spot.

In most cases, you will receive a temporary driving permit that allows you to drive for a limited period of time.

However, you must act quickly if you want to challenge the suspension.

The 10-Day Deadline for a Driver License Division Hearing

One of the most important steps after a DUI arrest in Utah is requesting a hearing with the Utah Driver License Division (DLD).

You have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request this hearing. If you miss this deadline, your license may be automatically suspended.

This administrative hearing is separate from your criminal court case and determines whether your license will be suspended.

A DUI attorney may be able to represent you during this hearing and challenge the suspension.

Your Vehicle May Be Impounded

In many DUI arrests, the vehicle involved may be towed and impounded.

To retrieve your vehicle, you may need to provide:

• Proof of identification
• The impound report
• Payment for towing, taxes, and storage fees

Because storage costs can increase daily, it is important to address the situation quickly.

Criminal Court Proceedings

In addition to the administrative license process, DUI charges will proceed through the criminal court system.

Depending on the circumstances, DUI charges in Utah may be classified as:

• Class B misdemeanor for a first or second offense
• Felony DUI for repeat offenses or cases involving serious injury

Possible penalties may include:

• Fines and court costs
• Jail time
• Probation
• Alcohol education or treatment programs
• Installation of an ignition interlock device

Every case is different, and the penalties depend on factors such as prior offenses, BAC level, and whether an accident occurred.

Building a DUI Defense

There are many ways a DUI charge may be challenged. An experienced DUI attorney may review:

• BAC test results
• Field sobriety tests
• Police procedures during the stop and arrest
• Video footage or witness statements
• Possible medical or physical factors affecting test results

Carefully analyzing this evidence can help determine the most effective defense strategy.

Protect Your Rights After a DUI Arrest

A DUI charge can have serious consequences that affect your license, finances, and future. Acting quickly after an arrest can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

At Veronica K. McDougal, P.C., we represent individuals facing DUI charges in Murray, Utah, and throughout Salt Lake County. Our firm works to minimize penalties and protect your driving privileges whenever possible.

If you have been arrested for DUI, call 801-899-7080 to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.