DUI Consequences & Penalties in Tennessee
Facing a DUI charge in Tennessee is a serious matter with life-altering consequences. Tennessee is known for having some of the strictest drunk driving laws in the nation, and the state legislature continues to enhance these penalties.
As of 2026, new changes to the DUI law include lowered thresholds for DUI enhancements and increased penalties for test refusals. This blog details the consequences of being convicted of a DUI in Tennessee.
The Tennessee DUI Statute: T.C.A. § 55-10-401
Under TCA § 55-10-401, it is unlawful for any person to drive or be in physical control of a motor vehicle on any public road, or any premises frequented by the public, while:
Under the influence of any intoxicant, marijuana, controlled substance, or drug that impairs the driver's ability to safely operate a vehicle; or
The alcohol concentration in the person's blood or breath is 0.08% or more.
Mandatory Minimum Punishments by Offense
The penalties for a DUI 1st offense in Tennessee are significant. However, the penalties escalate quickly with each subsequent conviction. Below is a breakdown of the mandatory minimums you can expect if convicted of a DUI in Tennessee.
DUI 1st Offense (Class A Misdemeanor)
Sentence: 11 months and 29 days.
Jail Time: 48 hours minimum (7 consecutive days if BAC is 0.15% or higher).
Fines: $350 to $1,500.
License Suspension: 1 year.
Possible Restricted Driver’s License if IID or Geographic Restrictions.
Additional: Mandatory DUI school
DUI 2nd Offense (Class A Misdemeanor)
Sentence: 11 months and 29 days.
Jail Time: 45 days minimum.
Fines: $600 to $3,500.
License Suspension: 2 years.
Possible Restricted Driver’s License if IID or Geographic Restrictions.
DUI 3rd Offense (Class A Misdemeanor)
Sentence: 11 months and 29 days.
Jail Time: 120 days minimum.
Fines: $1,100 to $10,000.
License Suspension: 6 years.
Possible Restricted Driver’s License if IID or Geographic Restrictions.
DUI 4th Offense (Class E Felony)
Sentence: 1 year minimum - 6 year maximum
Jail Time: 150 days minimum (served day-for-day);
Fines: $3,000 to $15,000.
License Suspension: 8 years.
DUI 5th Offense (Class D Felony)
Sentence: 2 year minimum - 12 year maximum
Jail Time: 150 days minimum
Fines: $3,000 to $15,000.
License Suspension: 8 years.
DUI 6th Offense (Class C Felony)
Sentence: 3 year minimum - 15 year maximum
Jail Time: 150 days minimum
Fines: $3,000 to $15,000.
License Suspension: 8 years.
Because the DUI penalties in Tennessee are so significant - Jail Time, Loss of License, Permanent Criminal Record - it’s crucial that you contact an Experienced DUI Attorney. Let Butler Law take the stress of resolution from you while handling your DUI charge with diligence and efficiency.