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Getting arrested for a DUI in Alabama isn’t just a legal headache—it’s a financial blow. DUI fines in the state can vary widely based on whether it’s your first offense or one of several. And the base fine is only part of the total cost. Once you add in court fees, license reinstatement fees, mandatory classes, and possible ignition interlock expenses, the number climbs fast.
Many drivers are shocked when they realize the true cost of a DUI. It’s not just a one-time fine—it’s a combination of state-mandated penalties, local surcharges, and indirect costs that continue long after the case ends. Even a basic, first-time DUI offense can easily cost several thousand dollars, and that doesn’t include higher insurance premiums or job-related consequences.
In this guide, we break down exactly how much DUI fines are in Alabama, how they change with repeat offenses, and what hidden costs you need to expect. If you’ve been arrested or are trying to understand what a conviction could cost, this will give you a clear picture of the financial damage a DUI can cause.
Minimum and Maximum DUI Fines in Alabama
Alabama law outlines specific fine ranges for DUI convictions, depending on how many prior offenses are on your record within the past 10 years. Here’s how it breaks down:
First Offense DUI:
- Minimum fine: $600
- Maximum fine: $2,100
- Additional court costs and fees: $300–$500+
Second Offense DUI (within 10 years):
- Minimum fine: $1,100
- Maximum fine: $5,100
- Court costs and surcharges: $400–$800+
Third Offense DUI:
- Minimum fine: $2,100
- Maximum fine: $10,100
- Higher mandatory surcharges and fees
Fourth Offense or Felony DUI:
- Minimum fine: $4,100
- Maximum fine: $10,100 or more
- May also include longer jail time and felony-level court fees
These fines are state-mandated minimums, but individual judges may impose additional penalties depending on the facts of your case. That includes higher surcharges, probation fees, and other financial penalties tied to treatment or monitoring.
Additional Costs That Raise the Total
The fine is just the beginning. A DUI conviction in Alabama comes with multiple required costs that most people don’t factor in at first. Here are the most common ones:
- Court Costs and Filing Fees: $300 to $800 depending on jurisdiction
- Alcohol Education or Substance Abuse Program: $150 to $500
- Ignition Interlock Installation (if required): $70–$150 installation fee + $60–$80/month
- Driver License Reinstatement Fee: $275
- SR-22 Insurance Filing: Required for high-risk drivers, adds hundreds to insurance costs
- Probation Supervision Fees: $40–$60/month if court-ordered
When you add these up, even a “cheap” first-time DUI can easily run between $3,000 and $5,000—and that’s if you don’t miss work or lose your job in the process.
Repeat offenders, or those required to use ignition interlock devices for multiple years, can see total costs exceeding $10,000.
Fines Are Just One Part of the Financial Penalties
The fine you pay to the court is only one part of the equation. Alabama also enforces long-term financial consequences through:
- Driver’s license suspension or revocation
- Mandatory interlock periods
- Higher insurance rates
- Employment limitations for certain professions
- Difficulty securing credit or loans with a criminal record
These indirect penalties don’t show up on a court bill, but they can follow you for years. For example, a DUI conviction stays on your criminal record permanently in Alabama and affects everything from background checks to professional licensing.
Your insurance company will likely label you a high-risk driver, which can double or triple your premiums for 3–5 years after a conviction. In some cases, companies will drop your policy entirely, forcing you to seek expensive specialty insurance.
How BAC and Refusal Impact Fines
In Alabama, the amount of alcohol in your system—or whether you refused testing—can also influence your fines and required penalties.
If your BAC was 0.15% or higher:
- You may face enhanced penalties, including ignition interlock even on a first offense
- Some judges may impose higher fines within the legal maximum
If you refused a chemical test:
- You’re subject to a 1-year license suspension on top of any criminal penalties
- Fines may be higher, and some plea deals may be off the table
Alabama has a strict “Implied Consent” law, which means refusing a test triggers automatic license suspension and additional administrative costs—even if you’re not convicted.
So while the basic fine range may look the same on paper, your BAC level or refusal to test can escalate the final total significantly.
Payment Plans and Financial Hardship Options
Some Alabama courts offer payment plans for DUI fines, especially for first-time offenders who show financial hardship. However:
- You must request a plan in court
- Additional interest or administrative fees may be added
- Failure to pay on time can result in license suspension or probation violations
Not all jurisdictions offer flexibility. In some counties, full payment is required before your sentence is considered complete. In others, community service may be allowed in place of some fines, but this is up to the judge’s discretion.
You may also be required to prove your income and assets before a court approves any kind of fine reduction or installment agreement.
Bottom line: while there’s some room for negotiation, DUI fines in Alabama are not easily waived.
Comparing DUI Fines to Other Penalties
It’s easy to look at DUI fines in isolation, but it helps to understand how they compare to other penalties. Here’s how DUI stacks up in Alabama:
| Offense | Fine Range | Additional Penalties |
|---|---|---|
| Speeding | $100–$300 | Points on license |
| Reckless Driving | $200–$500 | Possible jail time, 6-month license suspension |
| First DUI | $600–$2,100 | License suspension, jail, classes, insurance hike |
| Second DUI | $1,100–$5,100 | Jail time, interlock, 1-year license revocation |
As you can see, DUI fines are substantially higher, and they come with more layers of punishment that go beyond money. Even a reckless driving charge—which is sometimes used in plea deals—carries far less financial risk.
FAQ
How much is the fine for a first DUI in Alabama?
A first offense carries a minimum fine of $600 and a maximum of $2,100, plus court fees.
What is the total cost of a DUI in Alabama?
With all costs combined, including classes and insurance hikes, most people pay between $3,000 and $7,000 for a single DUI.
Do fines increase for each DUI offense?
Yes. Each repeat offense brings a higher minimum and maximum fine, and additional court fees.
Can I make payments on DUI fines?
Possibly. Some courts allow payment plans, but you must request one and may face extra fees.
Is the fine the same if I refused a breath test?
Not exactly. You’ll face a license suspension and possibly enhanced penalties, depending on how the case proceeds.
Conclusion
DUI fines in Alabama are no small matter. Even a first offense starts at $600 and often balloons into thousands of dollars once court fees, license reinstatement, and mandatory programs are factored in. Repeat offenses push the number even higher, and the financial impact doesn’t stop at the courtroom.
Understanding the full cost—from direct fines to hidden fees—can help you prepare for the consequences of a DUI conviction. And remember, the earlier you act, the better your chances of managing these penalties and protecting your future.
For a detailed breakdown of financial penalties, check out the Common DUI Fines and Financial Penalties guide.
You can also explore the full penalty structure at the DUI Penalties and Consequences hub for Alabama.