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Published on 9/25/2025, 8:46:00 AM

How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in Maryland?

A DUI conviction in Maryland stays on your court record permanently and shows on your driving record for years with serious MVA consequences. Dismissals, acquittals, and many PBJ outcomes may be eligible for expungement, but convictions are not. If you�re charged, act fast - our Maryland DUI lawyers can help you protect your future.

One of the most common questions we hear as Maryland DUI lawyers is: �How long will this stay on my record?� The short answer: a long time. Here�s how it breaks down and what you can still do about it.

DUI and Your Court Record

A DUI conviction in Maryland stays on your public court record permanently. Maryland does not allow expungement of convictions for DUI.

However, if your case is dismissed, acquitted, or resolved with Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), you may qualify to expunge the case. For practical guidance on PBJ and expungement, read our plain-English explainer on DUI PBJ in Maryland and our deep dive on DUI expungement in Maryland.

If you�re still early in the process, learn the full path of a case from stop to sentencing in our step-by-step Maryland DUI Guide.

DUI and Your Driving Record (MVA)

The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) maintains alcohol-related entries on your driving record permanently, which can affect:

You may also face administrative penalties that are separate from the criminal case, including suspensions after a high BAC or a refusal. You can contest these at an Office of Administrative Hearings proceeding�learn more about MVA Hearings.

Not sure whether you�re looking at DUI or DWI? Here�s a quick comparison of standards and penalties: DUI vs. DWI in Maryland. For BAC �per se� rules, see: DUI Per Se.

DUI and Employment Background Checks

Most employers and licensing boards use background checks that will report criminal case outcomes. A conviction will appear. A PBJ is not a conviction, which can soften some consequences, but the underlying case may still be visible until eligible for expungement. For professionals (healthcare, finance, government-cleared roles), see our guide on DUIs and professional licenses.

If you hold a commercial license, read our page on Commercial License DUI for CDL-specific fallout and timelines.

Can a DUI Ever Be Removed?

  • Conviction: Not expungeable in Maryland.
  • Dismissal, Acquittal, Nolle Prosequi, or PBJ: Often expungeable after waiting periods�see our practical overview on DUI expungement.
  • Administrative Entries (MVA): Separate from court records; consequences can include suspensions, interlock, and long-term driving record entries. You can challenge many actions at an MVA hearing.

Because expungement rules hinge on the exact final disposition, it�s crucial to build the right strategy from day one. Our team defends cases with trial-ready tactics�learn about jury demand strategy in DUI jury trials.

FAQs

Q: How long does a DUI stay on your court record in Maryland?

A: A conviction stays permanently. Non-convictions (dismissal, acquittal, nolle pros.) and many PBJs can be expunged�see our DUI expungement guide.

Q: How long does a DUI affect my Maryland driving record?

A: Alcohol-related entries remain on your MVA record and can drive suspensions, interlock, and insurance hikes. You may be able to contest some actions at an MVA hearing. MVA entries are ususally shared between States, so switching states will not hide prior driving offenses.

Q: Is PBJ the same as a conviction?

A: No. PBJ is not a conviction, which is why it can be a powerful outcome in DUI cases. Learn how PBJ works in our DUI PBJ article.

Q: What�s the difference between DUI and DWI in Maryland?

A: Different proof standards and penalties. See our quick comparison: DUI vs. DWI and BAC rules at DUI Per Se.

Q: Will a DUI hurt my professional license or security clearance?

A: It can. The impact varies by agency and board. Start with our guide on DUIs and professional licenses and speak with counsel early.

Protecting Your Future After a DUI

If you�ve been charged with DUI in Maryland, the best time to fight is before conviction. The DUI defense lawyers at FrizWoods build cases for trial, negotiate from strength, and protect both your record and your license. If you hold a CDL, review Commercial License DUI for added risks. If you�ve received a notice about interlock, read our primer on Ignition Interlock and DUIs.

Have questions about hearings, timelines, or expungement options after PBJ? We�ll walk you through it.

Contact us for a free consultation.

Related resources

Questions about your record, PBJ eligibility, or MVA deadlines? Contact us for a free consult.