Tennessee DUI Laws & Penalties (2026)
Tennessee requires IID for all DUI offenses and has mandatory minimum jail sentences. As of 2021, first offense DUI can be expunged after 5 years.
Tennessee DUI Penalties
1st Offense
2nd Offense
BAC Limits in Tennessee
📜 Expungement
DUI expungement is available in Tennessee. Waiting period: 5 years (first offense, as of 2021).
Expungement Guide →💰 Estimated Total Cost
A first DUI in Tennessee typically costs $10,000-$25,000+ including fines, attorney, classes, IID, and insurance increases.
Calculate Your Cost →DUI Lawyers by City in Tennessee
Find a DUI Attorney in Tennessee
Connect with experienced DUI lawyers in Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and across Tennessee.
Tennessee DUI Deep Dives
🚨 First Offense Penalties
Complete guide to what happens on your first DUI in Tennessee.
🍺 BAC Limit
Legal BAC limits for standard, commercial, and under-21 drivers.
💰 DUI Cost
Full cost breakdown: fines, attorney, classes, insurance, and more.
🔧 Ignition Interlock Cost
IID installation, monthly fees, and provider comparison.
🚫 License Suspension
Suspension length, restricted license options, and reinstatement steps.
🧮 Cost Calculator
Estimate your total DUI cost with our interactive tool.
Official Sources & References
- 📋 Tenn. Code § 55-10-401 — Tennessee DUI statute
- 🚗 Tennessee DMV — License suspension, reinstatement, IID requirements
- 📊 NHTSA Impaired Driving Data
- 🛡️ MADD — Mothers Against Drunk Driving
DUIFinders.com is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Information is for general purposes only. Consult a licensed attorney in Tennessee for advice specific to your situation.
Tennessee DUI FAQ
What is the BAC limit in Tennessee?
The legal BAC limit in Tennessee is 0.08% for regular drivers, 0.04% for commercial drivers, and 0.02% for drivers under 21.
What are the penalties for a first DUI in Tennessee?
A first DUI in Tennessee is a Misdemeanor. Penalties include 48 hours–11 months 29 days jail, $350–$1,500 in fines, and 1-year revocation license suspension.
Is an ignition interlock device required in Tennessee?
Required for all offenses
Can a DUI be expunged in Tennessee?
Yes, DUI expungement is available in Tennessee. Waiting period: 5 years (first offense, as of 2021).
What is the lookback period for DUI in Tennessee?
Tennessee uses a 10-year lookback period to determine if an offense counts as a repeat offense.