For offenses on or after December 1, 2019, New Jersey leans on ignition interlocks. Many first offenders keep losing their license until an interlock is installed. Repeat offenses within 10 years bring long suspensions, jail and bigger surcharges.
First DUI on or after 12/1/19
| Offense | License loss | Interlock |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol, BAC below 0.15% | Indefinite, until interlock installed | 3 mo (0.08-0.10%); 7 mo-1 yr (0.10-0.15%) |
| Alcohol, BAC 0.15% or higher | 3 months | During suspension + 12-15 mo after |
| Drug-related | 7 to 12 months | No interlock |
Second DUI within 10 years (on or after 12/1/19)
| Penalty | Amount |
|---|---|
| License loss | 1 to 2 years |
| Fine and surcharge | $500-$1,000 fine; $1,000 a year for 3 years |
| Jail / service | 48 hours to 90 days; 30 days community service |
| Interlock | During suspension + 2 to 4 years after |
Know the rule
A third DUI within 10 years of the second (on or after 12/1/19) brings an 8-year license loss, a $1,000 fine, a $1,500-a-year surcharge for 3 years, 180 days in jail, up to 90 days of community service, and an interlock for 2 to 4 years after restoration.
Handbook p. 128 ↗Know the rule
All alcohol and drug DUI offenses require completion of an alcohol screening and evaluation program. Every DUI level includes 12 to 48 hours at an IDRC.
Handbook p. 128 ↗Related offenses
| Offense | License loss | Fine / other |
|---|---|---|
| Drinking alcohol while driving or riding | None | $200 first; $250 (+10 days CS) second |
| Driving on a DUI suspension | Additional 1-2 years | $500; $250/yr for 3 yrs; 10-90 days jail |
| No insurance, first offense | 1 year | $300-$1,000; $250/yr for 3 yrs; CS |
| No insurance, second offense | 2 years | Up to $5,000; 14 days jail; 30 days CS |
| Driving while possessing drugs | 2 years | Minimum $50 fine |
Know the rule
Driving on a DUI suspension also suspends your registrations for the same period.
Handbook p. 128 ↗Know the rule
The no-insurance suspension may be reduced or eliminated if you show the court proof of liability insurance at the hearing.
Handbook p. 128 ↗Put it into practice
A driver convicted in 2024 of a first DUI at 0.12% loses his license until he installs an interlock, then must keep it for 7 months to 1 year. At 0.16% he would lose his license for 3 months and need the interlock during and 12 to 15 months after.