DUI Utah First Offense –
Complete Guide to Penalties and Laws

A DUI in Utah is a serious criminal charge, and even a first offense carries strict consequences. Utah is known for having the lowest legal BAC limit in the U.S. at 0.05%, meaning drivers can face DUI charges after consuming very little alcohol. If you are facing a Utah DUI first offense, it is important to understand the penalties, license consequences, and long-term impact.

Utah BAC Limit for First Offense DUI

Under Utah DUI law:

• Standard Drivers: 0.05% BAC is the legal limit.
  
  

• Commercial Drivers: Limit is 0.04% BAC.
  
  

• Under 21 Drivers: Zero tolerance – any alcohol in the system is illegal.
  
  

This strict standard makes Utah one of the hardest states to fight a first-time DUI charge.

Penalties for a First DUI in Utah

A first DUI conviction in Utah comes with significant criminal and administrative penalties:

• Jail or Community Service: Minimum 48 hours in jail OR 48 hours of community service. Judges can impose up to 180 days in jail.
  
  

• Fines: Minimum $1,310 fine plus court costs and surcharges.
  
  

• License Suspension: 120-day suspension from the Utah Driver License Division.
  
  

• Ignition Interlock Device: If BAC was 0.16% or higher, an ignition interlock device is required for 18 months.
  
  

• Alcohol Assessment: Mandatory substance abuse assessment and treatment or education program.
  
  

License Suspension After a First Offense DUI

The Utah Driver License Division (DLD) enforces a suspension separate from the court:

• For a first DUI offense, your license will be suspended for 120 days.
  
  

• If you refuse a chemical test, suspension increases to 18 months under Utah’s implied consent law.
  
  

• Drivers have 10 days to request a hearing to contest the suspension.
  
  

First Offense DUI With High BAC

If your BAC is 0.16% or higher, Utah law imposes harsher penalties even for a first offense:

• Ignition Interlock Device required.
  
  

• Judges may impose longer jail sentences.
  
  

• Additional treatment requirements may apply.
  
  

Collateral Consequences of a First DUI in Utah

Beyond fines and jail, a first offense DUI Utah conviction can affect your life in many ways:

• Insurance Rates: Premiums can increase by 200–300%.
  
  

• Employment: Background checks may disqualify applicants for jobs requiring driving or professional licenses.
  
  

• Permanent Record: A DUI stays on your record for 10 years.
  
  

Defenses for First-Time DUI Charges in Utah

While penalties are severe, some defenses may be available:

• Improper Stop: Police must have reasonable suspicion to initiate a traffic stop.
  
  

• Breathalyzer Issues: Faulty equipment or improper calibration can lead to false results.
  
  

• Medical Conditions: Certain conditions mimic intoxication (diabetes, acid reflux, neurological disorders).
  
  

• Procedural Errors: Violations of your rights may weaken the prosecution’s case.
  
  

Utah DUI First Offense vs. Other States

Compared to most states, Utah is far stricter on first-time DUI offenders:

• The 0.05% BAC limit is lower than the national 0.08% standard.
  
  

• Penalties apply even if you were not visibly impaired but tested above the legal limit.
  
  

Avoiding a First DUI in Utah

The best way to avoid a Utah DUI first offense is by planning ahead:

• Designate a sober driver before drinking.
  
  

• Use rideshare apps such as Uber or Lyft.
  
  

• Stay overnight if drinking away from home.
  
  

Conclusion

A first DUI offense in Utah is not a minor traffic violation—it is a criminal charge with serious penalties, including jail time, heavy fines, license suspension, and long-term consequences. Because Utah has the strictest DUI law in the country, drivers should take every precaution to avoid a charge. Understanding the law and penalties helps individuals make informed decisions and protect their future.