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Last Modified on Nov 16, 2025
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense. Kentucky DUI laws are strict, which is why it’s imperative to act quickly if you’re facing charges. Even a first-time DUI can impact your life. If you’re involved in a DUI case in Kentucky, it’s beneficial to hire a DUI lawyer to help you through your case. Even so, it’s wise to learn about DUI 1st offense penalties in Kentucky yourself, so you understand what’s happening throughout your case.
DUI Cases in Kentucky
With impaired driving posing such a serious risk to the driver themselves and everyone around them, it makes sense that Kentucky takes DUI cases seriously. If you’re facing charges, it’s important that you understand the scope of your charges in order to build a strong defense. A Kentucky DUI lawyer can help you through every step of the process.
The number of overall traffic fatalities in Kentucky has decreased in recent years, with the state reporting 107 fewer fatalities than in 2023. Still, the state officially has the ninth-highest fatality rate from motor vehicle accidents in the nation.
There were a total of 707 deaths from 663 fatal traffic accidents in Kentucky in 2024. Of those deaths, 152 were caused by drivers operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol. Studies show that drunk drivers cause approximately 17 percent of all highway fatalities in Kentucky.
Penalties for a First-Time DUI Conviction in Kentucky
A first-time DUI offense is generally going to carry the least severe penalties unless the case involves aggravating factors that escalate the charges. You can typically expect to have your license suspended for six months and be required to participate in a 90-day alcohol or substance abuse program.
Typically, drivers are not required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) after their first DUI offense within 10 years. However, an individual may decide to enroll in the Kentucky Ignition Interlock Program (KIIP) if eligible to reduce the suspension period on their license.
The lookback period for DUIs in Kentucky is 10 years, which means judges can look at past DUI convictions when determining your punishment for a current charge and impose a more serious punishment. It’s harder to fight charges for repeat DUI offenses, but not impossible. Whether you’re facing your first charge or have been charged again, it’s beneficial to hire a DUI lawyer to help you through your case.
Aggravating Factors for DUI in Kentucky
Most first-time DUIs are fairly straightforward to process. That said, there are certain aggravating factors that can escalate your case and leave you facing more serious charges. Aggravating factors that can impact your DUI sentence include:
- Causing injury or death
- Driving with a minor in the vehicle
- Excessive speeding
- High BAC (15 or higher)
- Refusing blood, breath, or urine tests
There’s a lot on the line when facing DUI charges in Kentucky, which is why it’s critical that you understand your rights and legal options when it comes to building a strong defense for your case.
FAQs
What Are the Penalties for Getting a DUI in Kentucky?
The penalties for being charged with DUI in Kentucky can vary depending on the severity of the incident and whether or not it’s your first offense. The typical punishment for a first-time DUI offense within a 10-year period is a six-month license suspension.
First-time DUI offenders must also complete a 90-day alcohol or substance abuse program. For each subsequent offense within 10 years, the length of the substance abuse program and the time your license is suspended increases.
Do I Need an Ignition Interlock Device for a First-Time DUI in Kentucky?
Typically, you do not need an ignition interlock device (IID) for a first-time DUI in Kentucky. However, you may be required to if your case involves any aggravating circumstances. This device requires drivers to take a breathalyzer test every time they attempt to drive a vehicle. Repeat DUI offenders in Kentucky must install an IID to operate a motor vehicle again. A vehicle with an IID won’t start if the driver’s BAC is over 0.02.
Can I Have a DUI Charge Dismissed in Kentucky?
You can have a DUI charge dismissed in Kentucky. However, Kentucky takes DUI cases very seriously, which makes dismissal challenging. It is still possible with the right DUI defense strategy. It’s wise to hire a DUI lawyer to help you build a strong defense against your charges. Our goal at Michael J. Thompson, Attorney at Law, is to help you work toward a reduced sentence or have your charges dropped altogether.
Is Your License Suspended Immediately After a DUI in Kentucky?
Typically, your license is not immediately suspended upon receiving DUI charges in Kentucky, but you can expect it to be suspended upon a conviction.
It is possible for law enforcement to take your license at the scene of the DUI arrest or to issue an administrative suspension that suspends your license for the duration of your case. This is more common when offenders refuse to take a blood or breath test.
Hire a DUI Lawyer to Help You Through Your Case in Kentucky
Being charged with DUI is already challenging enough, and a conviction can only make things more complicated. Navigating DUI cases can be daunting, but you can make it through the process with the right legal support on your side.
When you hire a DUI lawyer, you can take advantage of honest counsel and aggressive advocacy from experienced professionals who know their way around a courtroom.
Our team at Michael J. Thompson, Attorney at Law, has decades of combined experience and can practice in both Kentucky and Tennessee, as well as in federal courts. You can count on us to help you understand your rights and legal options and to fight for your freedom.
If you’re ready to discuss your case in more detail, our attorneys are here to help. Reach out to set up a consultation with a team member, and we can get started right away.
