When people ask how much a DUI costs in Utah, they're usually thinking of the fine. But the fine is only one line on a much longer bill. Between court costs, license and interlock requirements, insurance increases, and the time missed from work, a first DUI commonly ends up costing far more than the headline number — often thousands of dollars once everything is added up.
Here's where the money actually goes.
1. Court Fines and Surcharges
The base fine is just the starting point. Utah adds a substantial surcharge on top of criminal fines, which raises the real total well above the base amount. Exact figures depend on the offense level and the court.
2. License Costs
Getting your license back isn't free. Expect a reinstatement fee paid to the Driver License Division, and often the cost of filing SR-22 proof of financial responsibility through your insurer for a set period.
3. Ignition Interlock
If an ignition interlock device is required, there's typically an installation cost plus an ongoing monthly fee for the device and calibration — costs that add up quickly over the required period.
4. Higher Insurance for Years
For many people this is the single biggest long-term cost. A DUI conviction can raise auto insurance premiums substantially, and that increase can last for years — often far exceeding the court fine over time.
5. Screening, Education, and Treatment
Utah DUI cases commonly require an alcohol/substance screening and, depending on the results, an education course or treatment — each with its own cost.
6. Towing, Impound, and Lost Time
- Towing and impound fees to recover your vehicle after arrest
- Wages lost for court dates, screening, and any jail time
- Transportation costs while your license is suspended
7. Attorney Fees
Hiring a defense attorney is a real cost — but it's often the one that saves money. A reduced charge or a stronger result can lower fines, shorten interlock and insurance consequences, and protect your job. Weigh attorney fees against the full lifetime cost of a conviction, not just the fine.
If you're facing a DUI and worried about what it will cost, the sooner you talk to a defense attorney, the more options you have. Cardon, Stuart & Associates offers a free, confidential consultation — reviewed personally by an attorney — and we're available 24/7. We also serve Spanish-speaking clients (se habla español). Call (801) 627-1110.