The Real Cost of a DUI: Fines, Fees, and Hidden Expenses

 Posted on September 07, 2025 in DUI

Getting charged with an Illinois DUI is more expensive than the court fines listed in the statute. When you add in the fees for mandatory alcohol classes, hikes in car insurance, the cost of a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID), and the Illinois Secretary of State fees, the financial impact can be thousands of dollars.

Most drivers who are convicted of DUI are genuinely shocked at all the unexpected expenses, even for a first offense. Once you realize the actual cost of an Illinois DUI, you will fully understand why you must have an experienced Wheaton, IL DUI lawyer who will fight hard for your future.  

What Are the Illinois Court-Imposed Penalties for a DUI Conviction?

Under Illinois law (625 ILCS 5/11-501(c)(1)), a first-time DUI conviction comes with a maximum fine of $2,500. For a second conviction, the mandatory fine is between $1,250 and $2,500. If the DUI is charged as an Aggravated DUI (a felony), the fines can be as high as $25,000. Additional court costs and fees will depend on the county, but can include:

• Court costs: Up to $1,381
• Court-ordered alcohol and drug evaluation: $225 - $350
• Court-ordered drug or alcohol treatment: Between $1,000 and $4,000
• Court-Monitoring/Probation fees: A monthly fee between $50 and $100

There may also be mandatory assessment fees for DUI funds, victims’ assistance, and local court fees. The penalties and costs increase with each subsequent DUI offense, and lawyer fees are a separate, substantial cost.

Illinois Secretary of State Fees and License Reinstatement

Suppose a driver loses his or her driver’s license as a result of a DUI conviction. In that case, there is a $250 summary suspension fee to reinstate driving privileges, a $50 fee to request a formal hearing before the Illinois Secretary of State, a reinstatement fee of $500 to restore full driving privileges after revocation, and application fees and ongoing monitoring requirement fees for a Restricted Driving Permit.

Illinois BAIID and Monitoring Costs

• Those required to have a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device installed in their vehicle will pay:
• BAIID Installation: Between $85 and $100 upfront
• Monthly Fee: Between $65 and $120
• Removal Fee: At least $50
• Violations penalties: If the driver misses a calibration appointment or "fails" a blow, there are extra costs attached.

Mandatory Treatments, Classes, and Evaluations

Most drivers will be required to have an alcohol and drug evaluation through a Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery provider. Risk education classes cost between $200 and $300, and treatment programs can range from $500 to several thousand dollars, depending on whether the driver is classified as minimal, moderate, significant, or high risk.

The Costs of Auto Insurance and SR-22 Insurance

SR-22 insurance filing is required for three years following an Illinois DUI. There is an SR-22 filing fee, which ranges from $25 to $50. Drivers with a DUI on their records can expect their overall insurance costs to double or even triple. A single DUI can potentially cost as much as $10,000 in added premiums over time.  

Indirect Costs of a DUI in Illinois

A DUI conviction can cost an individual his or her job and can make it very difficult to obtain future employment. If the person’s job involves driving or a professional license, then the career he or she trained for may no longer be a viable option. Court dates, alcohol classes, potential jail time, and community service all take time away from work and can result in job loss or, at a minimum, lost wages.  

Contact a DuPage County, IL DUI Lawyer

You may think that hiring a lawyer is just another expense, but this is one expense you should never skimp on. An experienced Wheaton, IL driving under the influence attorney from Stephen A. Brundage may be able to negotiate your DUI charges down to a wet reckless, or even have the charges dismissed altogether.

Paying for strong legal representation can potentially save you thousands of dollars, making it a worthwhile investment. Attorney Brundage’s law enforcement background as a police officer, evidence technician, instructor, and investigator provides key advantages to clients. Call 630-260-9647 to schedule your free consultation.