The Cost of a DUI in Missouri: Fines, Fees, and Insurance Impact
A Missouri DUI is not cheap. It strikes you fast and directly. Let’s take a closer examination of exactly how much it costs.
Missouri DUI Fines
Missouri has certain DUI fines that go by the name DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) as well. Here’s what you might be paying:
- First offense: $1,000 maximum
- Second offense: $2,000 maximum
- Third offense or subsequent: $10,000 maximum
That’s just the court fine. Other costs are added. Fines go higher in other municipalities. Local regulations add extra costs. Always determine what applies to your situation.
Court Fees and Legal Fees
Court fees add hundreds. You may be required to hire an attorney. Most Missouri DUI attorneys cost between $1,500 and $5,000. Some charge more, based on the case.
You may also be charged for:
- Court costs: $100 to $300
- Bail: $100 to $1,000
- Alcohol education classes: $200-$500
- Probation fees: $600-$1,200 per year
If you miss court or are a rule-breaker, you pay extra. That is late fees or new fees.
License Suspension and Reinstatement
If you get a DUI, your license gets suspended:
- First offense: 90 days
- Second offense: 1 year or more
To regain your driving privilege, you need to:
- Pay a $45 reinstatement fee
- Complete a Substance Awareness Traffic Offender Program (SATOP)
- File SR-22 insurance proof for 2 to 3 years
SATOP alone is $125 to $500. SR-22 insurance will double your rate. Driving suspended can put you in jail. It also doubles extra fines and fees. Consult an experienced dui defense lawyer in Kansas City for more details.
SR-22 Insurance Cost in Missouri
Your auto insurance will cost more after a DUI. Rates normally double or triple. This is what you can expect:
- Before DUI: $900 to $1,200 per year
- After DUI: $2,000 to $4,000 a year
You’ll need SR-22 coverage for 2 years. That’s a lot of cash. Most insurance providers will drop you. You may end up with a high-risk carrier. These are more costly and give less. You’ll likely lose bundling discounts. If you had home and auto bundled, rates go up.
Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
You may be mandated to get an IID installed in your car. It’s a breath-testing unit that locks up the vehicle when you are drunk. Charges are:
- Installation: $100 to $200
- Monthly fees: $60 to $100
- Fee for removal: $50 to $100
For a whole year, that’s about $1,000 in total. You pay to maintain the device functional. In case it is damaged, you pay again. Not taking required tests has fines attached.
Other Hidden Fees
A DUI can lose you your job. Certain work actually demands clean driving records. Truanting from work to attend court or jail time is also painful.
You may need to:
- Miss a day of work for court appearances
- Pay for taxis or ride-sharing apps
- Miss promotions or lose work privileges for your license
You could also lose your vehicle if it gets towed. Tow and storage charges can cost hundreds. Mental stress is another cost. DUIs can affect your relationships and family. Shame and anxiety make it worse.
Total Estimated Cost of a DUI in Missouri
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Cost Type | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
| Court Fine | $500 | $10,000 |
| Legal Fees | $1,500 | $5,000 |
| Court Costs | $100 | $300 |
| Bail | $100 | $1,000 |
| SATOP | $125 | $500 |
| License Reinstatement | $45 | $45 |
| SR-22 Insurance (2 yrs) | $4,000 | $8,000 |
| Ignition Interlock | $1,000 | $1,500 |
| Alcohol Classes/Probation | $800 | $1,700 |
| Total Cost | $8,170 | $28,045 |
This doesn’t include job loss or other personal costs.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay?
Missed payments or court dates make it worse. You might be faced with:
- Jail time
- Longer suspension of your license
- Greater fines
- Extra fees in court
Your wages may be garnished by the court. Your property may be placed under lien. Your credit is harmed. Prepaying is better than fees accumulation.
How to Lower DUI Costs
You can’t avoid all costs, but you can lower some:
- Have a good local lawyer
- Complete classes in a hurry
- Buy cheaper SR-22 insurance
- Comply with orders from court
Go to court unnecessarily. Don’t miss deadlines. Cooperate in court. Ask for community service. It sometimes reduces your fine. Judges will sometimes accept monthly payments.
Special Format: Real Person Example
Joe’s story: Joe is 32 and from Kansas City, and he got a DUI. Here’s what he paid:
- Fine: $750
- Lawyer: $2,500
- Court fees: $250
- SATOP: $300
- SR-22 insurance (2 years): $5,000
- Ignition device: $1,200
- Lost wages for missed work: $2,000
Total: $12,000+
Joe learned fast: a DUI is a punch in the gut. He now tells friends, “Just get a ride.”
Get to know Lisa: Lisa is 27, lives in St. Louis, and got a DUI after a wedding. She spent:
- Fine: $600
- Lawyer: $3,000
- Bail: $500
- Alcohol class: $350
- SR-22 insurance: $4,500 for 2 years
- Ride fee (Uber): $800 while suspended
Total: $9,750+
Lisa said the worst part was having to tell her boss. She almost lost her job.
5 Uncommon FAQs Regarding DUI Expenses in Missouri
1. May I drive after a Missouri DUI?
Yes, although your license may be suspended. You may get a restricted license with an IID.
2. Is SR-22 insurance required after a DUI?
Yes. You will need to maintain it on your policy for at least 2 years to restore your license.
3. Do I need a lawyer for a DUI?
You can represent yourself, but you shouldn’t. A lawyer reduces penalties and costs.
4. Will my employer find out about my DUI?
Maybe. If you have a job that demands a clean record or operating a vehicle, they will probably follow it up.
5. Can a DUI be dismissed?
It’s doubtful, but possible. Charges can be dismissed if police did something wrong or your rights were violated.
A Missouri DUI does not cost money solely. It affects your freedom, time, and future. Drive sober, and stay safe.
Call an experienced local criminal defense lawyer in Kansas City today.
