A DUI charge under Tennessee law is defined as operating or being in physical control of any automobile or motor-driven vehicle on public roads, highways, streets, alleys, or premises generally frequented by the public (such as shopping centers or apartment complexes), while:

  • Under the influence of any intoxicant, marijuana, controlled substance, drug, or any combination thereof that impairs the driver’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.​

  • Or, while having a blood or breath alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or greater.​

Recent changes in Tennessee DUI laws now consider a BAC of 0.15% or higher as aggravating, subjecting offenders to harsher penalties. The legal limit for a standard DUI, however, remains at 0.08%.​

Potential Sentences for DUI in Tennessee

Sentences vary based on the number of previous DUI convictions:

  • First Offense

    • Fines: $350 – $1,500

    • Minimum jail time: 48 hours (7 days if BAC ≥ 0.15%)

    • License revocation: 1 year

    • Possible community service, including public litter pickup

    • Ignition interlock device may be required.​

  • Second Offense

    • Fines: $600 – $3,500

    • Minimum jail time: 45 days

    • License revocation: 2 years

    • Mandatory alcohol/drug treatment in some cases.​

  • Third Offense

    • Fines: $1,100 – $10,000

    • Minimum jail time: 120 days

    • License revocation: 3-10 years.​

  • Fourth or Greater Offense

    • Class E Felony

    • Fines: $3,000 – $15,000

    • Minimum jail time: 150 days (served day for day)

    • License revocation: at least 5 years.​

Special Provisions

  • If accompanied by a child under 18: Mandatory minimum 30 days’ jail and $1,000 fine.​

  • If the child suffers serious bodily injury: Offense upgraded to Class D felony (Vehicular Assault).​

  • If the child is killed as a result: Offense upgraded to Class B felony (Vehicular Homicide).​

Summary Table: Tennessee DUI Sentences

Offense Minimum Fine Jail Time (Minimum) License Revocation
1st Offense $350 48 hours (7 days if BAC ≥ 0.15%) 1 year
2nd Offense $600 45 days 2 years
3rd Offense $1,100 120 days 3–10 years
4th+ Offense $3,000 150 days (Class E Felony) ≥5 years

All penalties may be increased for aggravating circumstances or additional violations. This summary reflects Tennessee law as of 2025.​