Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Laws in Nevada

1. What are the minimum and maximum penalties for a first time DUI offense in Nevada?


In Nevada, the minimum penalty for a first time DUI offense is two days in jail or 48 hours of community service and a fine of $400. The maximum penalty for a first time DUI offense is six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.

2. What is the legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) limit in Nevada?


The legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) limit in Nevada is 0.08%.

3. Is it a criminal offense to refuse to take a chemical test after being pulled over for suspicion of DUI in Nevada?


Yes, it is a criminal offense to refuse to take a chemical test after being pulled over for suspicion of DUI in Nevada. Drivers who refuse a chemical test can be charged with a misdemeanor for the first offense and can be punished with up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and the loss of their driver’s license for up to one year. Subsequent offenses can result in harsher penalties.

4. How long does a DUI conviction stay on an individual’s record in Nevada?


In Nevada, a DUI conviction can stay on an individual’s criminal record indefinitely.

5. Are there any exceptions to the zero tolerance policy on underage drinking and driving in Nevada?


No, there are no exceptions to Nevada’s zero tolerance policy on underage drinking and driving.

6. Are there any restrictions on the sale or possession of alcohol for drivers under 21 years of age in Nevada?


Yes, Nevada state law prohibits the sale of alcohol to any person under 21 years of age. It also prohibits the possession of alcohol by anyone under 21, with a few exceptions. Underage drivers, regardless of age, may not possess or consume any alcoholic beverage while operating a motor vehicle. Furthermore, transporting alcoholic beverages in a motor vehicle is also prohibited for anyone under the age of 21.

7. Are there any ignition interlock laws in Nevada?


Yes, Nevada has an ignition interlock law. All DUI convictions require the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID). In some cases, first-time offenders may be granted a restricted driver’s license that requires the use of an IID. Additionally, all convicted drivers are required to complete an alcohol awareness program and may be required to pay reinstatement fees.

8. What type of license suspension is issued for a DUI conviction in Nevada?


In Nevada, a DUI conviction can result in a suspension of the driver’s license for 90 days to 3 years, depending on the severity of the offense.

9. Is an individual required to attend drug and alcohol classes or treatment programs after being charged with a DUI in Nevada?


Yes, if a person is convicted of a DUI in Nevada, they may be required to attend drug and alcohol classes or treatment programs as part of their sentence. This may include court-mandated classes such as DUI school, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings, or individual counseling.

10. Does Nevada have an implied consent law for chemical testing after a DUI arrest?


Yes. Nevada’s implied consent law requires a person who is lawfully arrested for DUI to submit to a chemical test of his or her breath, blood, or urine. Refusal to do so can result in administrative license suspension as well as possible criminal charges.

11. Are there any laws requiring sobriety checkpoints or roadblocks in Nevada?


Yes, Nevada law requires that police may, from time to time, set up sobriety checkpoints. The checkpoints must be limited to a particular geographic area and be conducted consistently over a period of time. Vehicle occupants must be stopped at random and asked to provide proof of identification and sobriety.

12. Are there any restrictions on the types of vehicles an individual may operate following a DUI conviction in Nevada?


Yes. Following a DUI conviction in Nevada, an individual may be prohibited from operating any vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device. Additionally, there may be restrictions on the types of vehicles an individual may operate for a certain period of time depending on the severity of the DUI offense.

13. Is it possible to have a DUI charge reduced to a lesser offense in Nevada?


Yes, it is possible to have a DUI charge reduced to a lesser offense in Nevada. Depending on the circumstances of the case, a DUI charge can be reduced to a Wet Reckless or Dry Reckless charge in a plea bargain. However, this is only possible if the prosecution agrees to the plea bargain and if the defendant has no prior DUI convictions.

14. What is the legal limit for open containers of alcoholic beverages while driving in Nevada?


It is illegal to have an open container of alcoholic beverages while operating a vehicle in Nevada.

15. Does insurance coverage change after a DUI conviction in Nevada?


Yes, insurance coverage typically changes after a DUI conviction in Nevada. Insurance providers may increase premiums and deductibles after a DUI conviction, and many will drop coverage altogether. Drivers usually have to purchase high-risk insurance in order to obtain coverage after a DUI conviction, and these policies often include additional costs and limitations.

16. Are there any circumstances where an individual may drive with revoked license resulting from a DUI conviction in Nevada?


No. Driving with a revoked license resulting from a DUI conviction in Nevada is a criminal offense and can result in jail time.

17. Are there any laws that make it illegal to operate a vehicle without insurance after being convicted of a DUI in Nevada?


Yes. Nevada law requires any person convicted of driving under the influence to maintain a valid policy of liability insurance in order to operate a motor vehicle. Nevada Revised Statute 485A.440 states that any person convicted of a DUI must maintain insurance coverage for at least three years from the date of conviction. Failure to maintain such insurance or provide proof of insurance to the DMV can result in license suspension.

18. Is plea bargaining allowed for DUI cases in Nevada?


Yes, plea bargaining is allowed for DUI cases in Nevada. In most DUI cases, a plea bargain can be reached between the prosecutor and the defendant in which the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser offense in exchange for a lighter sentence. There are certain circumstances in which plea bargaining is not available, such as when the defendant has a prior DUI on their record or when the defendant has caused serious bodily injury or death while driving under the influence.

19. How long does an individual have to request a hearing with the DMV regarding driver’s license revocation for a DUI conviction in Nevada?


In Nevada, an individual has 10 days to request a hearing with the DMV regarding driver’s license revocation for a DUI conviction.

20. Does Nevada offer any programs that allow individuals to get their driver’s license reinstated following a DUI conviction?


Yes, Nevada does offer programs that allow individuals to get their driver’s license reinstated following a DUI conviction. The Nevada DMV administers a Driver’s License Reinstatement (DLR) program. This program is designed to help individuals who have been convicted of a DUI and have had their driver’s licenses suspended or revoked. To participate in the program, individuals must complete an approved Alcohol and/or Drug Education Program, maintain proof of financial responsibility (i.e., automobile insurance) and pay reinstatement fees. Additionally, participants may be required to install an Ignition Interlock Device in their vehicle(s). The DLR program is designed to help individuals become responsible drivers and remain safe on Nevada’s roads.