No one should ever drive after drinking. The risks are simply too high. Even if no one is injured, a DUI arrest can lead to jail time, heavy fines, and long-term damage to your driving record. If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Hernando County or elsewhere in Florida, here’s what you can expect.
What Happens During a DUI Stop in Florida
If an officer suspects you are driving under the influence, you may be asked to perform field sobriety tests such as walking in a straight line, balancing on one foot, or following an object with your eyes. If impairment is suspected, the officer will likely request a breathalyzer test to measure your blood alcohol content (BAC).
If your BAC is 0.08 or higher, you can be charged with DUI.
Florida’s Implied Consent Law
Florida has an implied consent law, meaning that by driving in the state, you agree to submit to BAC testing if law enforcement suspects impaired driving. You are not physically forced to take the test, but refusal carries serious consequences.
Refusing a breath, blood, or urine test results in an automatic one-year license suspension. A second refusal results in an 18-month suspension and a misdemeanor charge.
If a DUI involves serious bodily injury or death, a blood test is mandatory and cannot be refused.
Arrest, Jail, and Bail After a DUI
If you are found to be over the legal limit, you will be arrested, booked into jail, and held until bail is set. At that point, you or a loved one can contact Mercy Bail Bonds to arrange a bond and secure your release as quickly as possible.
Florida DUI Penalties
The following penalties are outlined in the Florida DMV Driver’s Handbook and may vary depending on circumstances.
First DUI Conviction in Florida
Fine: $500–$1,000 ($1,000–$2,000 if BAC is 0.15 or higher or a minor was in the vehicle)
Community service: 50 hours
Probation: Up to 1 year
Imprisonment: Up to 6 months (up to 9 months if BAC is 0.15 or higher or a minor was present)
License revocation: Minimum of 180 days
DUI school: 12 hours
Substance abuse evaluation and treatment if required
Ignition interlock device if court ordered (minimum 6 months if BAC was 0.15 or higher or a minor was present)
Second DUI Conviction in Florida
Fine: $1,000–$2,000 ($2,000–$4,000 if BAC is 0.15 or higher or a minor was in the vehicle)
Community service: 50 hours
Imprisonment: Up to 9 months
License revocation: Minimum of 180 days
DUI school: 21 hours
Substance abuse evaluation and treatment if required
Ignition interlock device if court ordered for 1 continuous year
Third DUI Conviction in Florida
Fine: $2,000–$5,000 (minimum $4,000 if BAC is 0.15 or higher or a minor was in the vehicle)
Community service: 50 hours
Imprisonment: Up to 12 months
License revocation: Minimum of 180 days
DUI school: 21 hours
Substance abuse evaluation and treatment if required
Ignition interlock device if court ordered for 2 continuous years
Florida Zero Tolerance Law
Drivers under 21 face stricter penalties.
Any driver under 21 with a BAC of 0.02 or higher will have their license suspended for six months.
Any driver under 21 with a BAC of 0.05 or higher is required to attend a substance abuse course.
Getting Help After a DUI Arrest
If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Hernando County or anywhere in Central Florida, contact Mercy Bail Bonds immediately. Our experienced staff is available 24/7 and can often secure release in just a few hours. Call (727) 856-7775 for immediate assistance.
A Final Reminder
Drinking and driving is a serious offense with life-altering consequences. Beyond fines and jail time, it can cost lives. If you’ve been drinking, hand over the keys and find a safe ride home.
If you don’t want to be charged with DUI, don’t drink and drive.