The Guide To Oregon DUI Penalties: What Are The Punishments
- Chris Trotter
- 3 hours ago
- 4 min read
Driving under the influence is a serious offense in any state, but Oregon DUI penalties are some of the strictest in the nation. From fines and license suspensions to jail time and ignition interlock requirements, the penalties can significantly impact your life. In this post, we’ll explain what you can expect from a DUI conviction in Oregon and how it could affect everything from your driving privileges to your criminal record.
If you’re facing DUI charges, you need an experienced DUI attorney to represent you. At Trotter Law, we provide high-quality representation after our years of handling DUI cases. We understand the ins and outs of Oregon DUI punishments and will aggressively defend you to protect your rights. We're located in Portland and we serve other cities such as Clackamas County, Beaverton, Tigard, and more.
Oregon DUI Punishments
Driving under the influence of intoxicants is a serious crime because it puts people’s lives at risk. In Oregon, if you have a BAC of .08 or higher or have taken intoxicants, you cannot legally drive. DUI penalties get increasingly stricter, depending on how many times you’ve been convicted. First and second DUI offenses are usually charged as Class A misdemeanors, but if you’re convicted of a third DUI, you’ll be facing felony charges.
Here’s a breakdown of Oregon DUI punishments.
Oregon 1st DUI Penalties
While a DUI first offense is the least severe, it still carries some serious penalties. If you’re convicted of a DUI and it’s your first offense, you will automatically have your driver’s license suspended for 1 year. After the suspension is up, you’ll have to use an ignition interlock device on your car. This makes it so you have to pass a breathalyzer test before the car will start. You may have to serve between 2 days and 1 year in jail or do 80 hours of community service. You’ll pay a minimum of $1,000 in fines and have to attend the drug and alcohol treatment program as well as the Victim’s Impact Panel.
Oregon 2nd DUI Penalties
If convicted of a second DUI, you face the following Oregon DUI penalties:
Up to a year in jail.
License suspension for a year. If it’s within 5 years of your first DUI, your license will be suspended for 3 years.
A minimum fine of $1,500.
The use of an ignition interlock device for 2 years (once your license suspension is up).
Drug and alcohol treatment program.
Victim’s Impact Panel.
Oregon 3rd DUI Penalties
In Oregon, a third DUI conviction within 10 years of the first and second offense is typically treated as a Class C felony. The penalties are much higher than for a first or second offense and can include:
Up to 5 years of jail time.
Permanent license suspension.
A minimum fine of $2,000.
Drug and alcohol treatment program.
Victim’s Impact Panel.
Any subsequent DUIs will receive the same penalties as a third DUI offense.
Oregon DUI Fines
Oregon DUI penalties include fines. The amount depends on the factors surrounding your conviction:
A first offense DUI comes with a minimum fine of $1,000. However, if your BAC is 0.15 or more, the minimum fine is $2,000.
A second offense DUI comes with a minimum fine of $1,500.
A third offense DUI comes with a minimum fine of $2,000.
If there was a child in the vehicle with you, you would have to pay a fine of up to $10,000.
How A DUI Affects Your Gun Rights
One of the ways a DUI may affect you is the loss of your gun rights. A first-time DUI in Oregon is usually classified as a Class A misdemeanor. In general, a single DUI will not result in the loss of your gun rights, unless other factors apply.
However, if the DUI is a felony (a third DUI offense or one involving serious injury or death), it becomes a Class C felony in Oregon. Under both state and federal law, felons cannot possess firearms. The loss of gun rights is automatic upon a felony conviction.
If you have a concealed handgun license, you may lose your permit, even if it’s a first DUI conviction. As part of the requirements for a CHL, you can not be convicted of a misdemeanor within four years of the application.
Oregon DUI Penalties Summary
Oregon DUI penalties may be tough, but they’re meant to discourage driving under the influence of intoxicants. First and second offense DUIs are treated as misdemeanors, but a third offense will typically be charged as a Class C felony, which can result in the loss of your gun rights.
If you’re facing DUI charges or looking to restore your gun rights after a third DUI, Trotter Law can help. Chris Trotter has spent his career handling DUI cases. He’ll fight for you to protect your rights and help you receive the best possible outcome. Contact Trotter Law today for a consultation!
*Nothing herein constitutes legal advice. You should obtain independent legal counsel regarding your specific factual situation.
