What Penalties Do First-Time DUI Offenders Face in Maryland?

 Posted on January 08, 2026 in 1st DUI

First-time DUI offenders in Maryland can face serious penalties, including jail time, fines, license suspension, and obligatory alcohol education programs. Even without a prior record, a DUI conviction can create immediate and long-term problems.

According to the Maryland Transportation Authority, nearly 800 people have been killed in crashes involving an impaired driver over the past five years, and about one-third of all roadway deaths in the state involve drunk driving.

As of 2026, Maryland courts still offer some leniency sometimes for first-time DUI offenders. If you were arrested for DUI, contact Arrested for a DUI, LLC today. Our Greenbelt, MD DUI defense lawyers can help you understand what penalties you may face and what options are available to fight the charges.

What Is Considered a First-Time DUI In Maryland?

A first-time DUI usually means you do not have any prior DUI convictions on your criminal record. Still, a first offense can carry harsh penalties. Under Maryland Transportation Article § 21-902(a), DUI generally involves a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher or clear evidence that alcohol affected a person’s ability to drive safely.

What Criminal Penalties Can Apply to a First DUI Conviction in Maryland?

Maryland law allows judges to impose a range of penalties for a first DUI conviction. Jail time is possible even for a first offense, though not every case results in incarceration.

Potential criminal penalties include:

• Up to one year in jail

• Fines of up to $1,000

• Court costs and supervision fees

• Mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs

Judges consider many factors when deciding punishment, including the facts of the arrest and whether anyone was hurt. They may also look at driving behavior, test results, and the presence of aggravating factors.

Can My Driver’s License Be Suspended After a First DUI Arrest in Maryland?

In Maryland, license consequences often begin shortly after the arrest, even before the criminal case is resolved.

Maryland law allows the Motor Vehicle Administration to suspend a driver’s license after a DUI arrest if a breath or blood test is failed or refused, as outlined in Maryland Transportation Article § 16-205.1. This suspension happens outside of the criminal court process and begins quickly. Drivers must act fast if they want to request a hearing or challenge the suspension.

How Long Could a License Suspension Last for a First DUI in Maryland?

The length of a license suspension depends on several factors, including test results and prior driving history. A higher blood alcohol level or test refusal often leads to longer suspension periods.

Some drivers may qualify for limited driving privileges, such as an ignition interlock program, but eligibility depends on the specific facts of the case. Missing deadlines or failing to comply with program rules can result in longer restrictions.

Are There Long-Term Consequences Beyond Court Penalties?

A DUI conviction can affect many areas of life long after the court case ends. Employment opportunities, professional licenses, and auto insurance rates can all be impacted.

Maryland assigns points to a driver’s record for DUI-related convictions. Accumulating points can lead to further license suspension or revocation, even after the criminal case is over.

How Does A DUI Affect Insurance and Employment?

Many insurance companies view a DUI as a high-risk event. Premiums often increase, and coverage options may become limited. Some employers also conduct background checks or driving record reviews, which can affect job opportunities. These consequences often last longer than the court penalties themselves.

Can a First DUI Be Reduced or Dismissed in Maryland?

In some cases, a first DUI charge can be reduced or dismissed, depending on the facts. DUI arrests must follow specific legal rules. When those rules are not followed, it can weaken the state’s case.

Common defenses in first-time DUI cases may include:

• An improper traffic stop, where the officer did not have a valid reason to pull the driver over

• Problems with alcohol testing, such as faulty equipment or improper testing methods

• Procedural mistakes, including missed warnings or skipped steps during the arrest

• Weak evidence of impairment, where the facts do not clearly show intoxication

Every case is different. Identifying possible defenses early can help protect your rights and improve how the case is resolved.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Rockville, MD DUI Defense Attorneys

If you are facing a first-time DUI charge, Arrested for a DUI, LLC can help you understand your options and protect your future. We bring more than 30 years of combined experience handling DUI cases, advocating strongly for the Hispanic community. Attorney Carlos J.R. Salvado also comments on and responds to local and national issues affecting Latin Americans and immigrants regularly.

Call 301-479-5466 to schedule a free consultation with our Greenbelt, MD DUI defense lawyers today. Se habla Español.