Estimates only. Costs vary by county, judge, attorney, and individual circumstances. This tool gives you a realistic ballpark — not a quote.

California DUI Cost Estimator

Answer a few questions to see a realistic breakdown of what a DUI could cost you in Year 1 — and beyond.

Which offense is this?

1️⃣ First DUI

2️⃣ Second DUI

⚠️ Felony DUI

BAC level (higher = worse penalties)

0.08–0.14%

0.15%+

Refused test

Were you hiring an attorney?

👨‍⚖️ Private attorney

🏛️ Public defender

🙋 Self-represent

Did it involve an accident or injury?

No accident

Property damage

Injury involved

Your current auto insurance (annual)

$1,200

Estimated total cost — Year 1

$0 – $0

This is a rough estimate. Your actual costs will vary.

Why DUI Costs Are So Unpredictable

California has a "base fine" listed in the Vehicle Code — typically $390 to $1,000. But that's just the starting point. Courts pile on penalty assessments, surcharges, and fees that can multiply the base fine by 3–4x. Then add attorney fees, mandatory programs, insurance spikes, and device costs.

The most unpredictable piece is insurance. A driver paying $1,200/year who needs an SR-22 after a DUI might see that jump to $3,500–$5,000/year — for 5–10 years. That single factor can dwarf everything else combined.