How Much Does a DUI Cost in Idaho? Breaking Down the Financial Impact

When people think about a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge in Idaho, their first concern is usually jail time or losing their driver's license. But the financial cost of a DUI is often just as damaging—and in many cases, longer-lasting. A DUI in Idaho, especially in Boise where enforcement is strict, can quickly become one of the most expensive mistakes a person ever makes.

This post will outline the full range of direct and indirect costs associated with a DUI charge in Idaho. Whether it's your first offense or a repeat, understanding the financial consequences can help you better prepare and make more informed decisions going forward.

Fines and Court Costs

Let's start with the basics: court fines and fees.

• First-time DUI: Up to $1,000 in fines (usually 500-750)

• Second offense (within 10 years): Up to $2,000 (usually $1,000)

• Third offense (within 10 years): Felony DUI with fines up to $5,000

In addition to statutory fines, expect to pay court costs and fees associated with processing your case. These can include administrative fees for paperwork, security, and court scheduling—adding another $200.

DUI Education and Substance Abuse Treatment

Idaho law requires anyone convicted of a DUI to undergo a substance abuse evaluation. This initial evaluation usually costs between $100 and $300. Depending on the results, you may be required to attend:

• DUI education classes

• Outpatient counseling

• Inpatient treatment (for severe cases)

Education programs typically cost $200 to $400, while more extensive treatment or therapy can cost several thousand dollars.

License Suspension and Reinstatement Fees

A DUI conviction comes with a mandatory license suspension:

• First offense: 90 to 180 days

• Second offense: 1 year minimum

• Third offense: Up to 5 years

Once your suspension period ends, you must pay to reinstate your driver's license, which usually costs around $285. That doesn't include any required paperwork, proof of insurance, or compliance with court-ordered programs.

Ignition Interlock Device (IID)

If convicted of a DUI in Idaho, you are likely to be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle.

• Installation fee: $70 to $150

• Monthly rental/monitoring: $60 to $100

• Total for one year: $1,000 to $1,400

This cost is entirely your responsibility and must be maintained consistently for the duration ordered by the court.

SR-22 Insurance

Perhaps the most burdensome long-term cost of a DUI in Idaho is SR-22 insurance. After a DUI conviction, you'll be required to file an SR-22 certificate with the Idaho Department of Motor Vehicles—proof that your insurance policy meets the state's minimum liability requirements.

Expect your premiums to skyrocket:

• Rate increases of 50–100% are common

• Annual insurance premium increases: $1,000 to $3,000

• SR-22 filing fee: Around $25 per year

You'll likely need to carry SR-22 insurance for three years, compounding the cost over time. 

Pro tip: Work with a savvy attorney to get a withheld judgment to get your case dismissed as soon as you finish probation. That can remove the SR-22 requirement at the time of dismissal, shortening the overall time you need to pay for that extra insurance.

Legal Representation

Although not mandatory, most people charged with a DUI hire an attorney to navigate the legal system. While prices vary based on experience and case complexity, at Boise DUI expect to pay:

• First-time DUI defense: $3,000+

• Repeat offenses or aggravated DUI: $3,000 to $10,000+

Choosing to represent yourself may save on attorney fees but often leads to costlier outcomes due to lack of experience and familiarity with DUI law.

Lost Wages and Employment Impact

Missing work due to court appearances, jail time, or license suspension is another real cost. Depending on your job, a DUI conviction could also lead to:

• Loss of employment (especially for those in transportation, government, or education roles)

• Difficulty finding new employment

• Delays in career advancement

While harder to quantify, lost income can easily add up to thousands of dollars, particularly for professionals or commercial drivers.

Towing and Vehicle Impound

If you're arrested during a traffic stop or after an accident, your vehicle may be towed and impounded:

• Towing fee: $100 to $300

• Daily impound fee: $25 to $50

• Total cost: Up to $500 or more, depending on how long your car remains in impound.

Other Incidental Costs

Finally, there are several smaller but cumulative expenses that come with a DUI:

• Transportation alternatives while your license is suspended (rideshares, taxis, public transport)

• Childcare during court dates or community service

• Time and stress—arguably the biggest hidden cost

Total Estimated Cost of a First-Time DUI in Idaho

When you add up all the direct and indirect costs, a first-time DUI in Idaho typically costs between $6,000 and $10,000. Here's a sample breakdown:

Final Thoughts

The financial cost of a DUI in Idaho can be devastating—even for a first-time offense. From the moment you're arrested to years after your case is closed, the ripple effects touch every part of your life. While the court-imposed fines may seem manageable, the cumulative costs often far exceed what most people anticipate.

Understanding these expenses up front is not just about budgeting—it's about making informed decisions that can help you avoid costly mistakes in the future. Whether you're a young adult facing a first charge or someone with more experience behind the wheel, the real price of a DUI in Idaho is simply too high to ignore. If you or a loved one has been charged with a DUI, give us a call or schedule a free consultation online today to see how we can help minimize your cost.