If you’ve been convicted of DUI in South Florida, you’re likely wondering how to clean up your record. While you can’t erase a conviction, you can avoid one altogether by acting quickly and strategically.
⚖️ Why Can’t a DUI Be Sealed or Expunged in Florida?
Florida law prohibits sealing or expunging your record if you’ve been adjudicated guilty of a crime—including DUI.
Under Florida Statute § 316.656, DUI convictions carry mandatory adjudication, which means:
- You are formally convicted
- Your conviction becomes part of your permanent criminal record
Therefore A DUI conviction may impact:
- 🔍 Employment background checks
- 🏠 Rental or mortgage applications
- 🚗 Car insurance rates
- 🎓 Professional licensing and renewals
So no legal pathway to erase or hide a DUI conviction from public exists in Florida once the Clerk of Court records the conviction.
Arrested for dui in fort lauderdale or anywhere in south florida?
🧠 The Key: Avoiding a DUI Conviction in the First Place
Because you can’t remove a DUI from your record after a conviction, your best legal strategy is to avoid the conviction entirely—usually by working to reduce the charge.
Why reduce DUI to reckless driving?
- Reckless driving is eligible for a withhold of adjudication
- Withholding adjudication = no formal conviction
- A withheld reckless driving charge can later be sealed
📍 In Fort Lauderdale and South Florida, prosecutors often agree to reduced charges when:
- The traffic stop is questionable
- Breath or blood tests are flawed
- You have no prior DUI history
More from the Blog:
- Sealing and Expungement
- More about DUI
- The Most Common Criminal Traffic Offenses in Florida
🛡️ How to Protect Your Record After a DUI Arrest
If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Florida, time is critical. Hiring an experienced Fort Lauderdale DUI defense attorney immediately can make all the difference.
At Michael White, P.A., we help clients across South Florida:
- Review evidence and test procedures
- Negotiate for charge reductions
- Protect their records and future
📞 Call (954) 270-0769 or schedule a free consultation to learn how to defend your rights and avoid a lifelong DUI conviction.
💬 FAQs: DUI Conviction and Record Removal in Florida
Q: Can I expunge or seal a DUI conviction in Florida?
A: No. Florida law does not allow DUI convictions to be expunged or sealed.
Q: Can reckless driving be sealed in Florida?
A: Yes, if adjudication is withheld and you meet all eligibility requirements.
Q: What’s the best way to avoid a permanent DUI record?
A: Hire an experienced attorney who can fight to reduce your charge before conviction.
Q: Will a DUI arrest still show up if I’m not convicted?
A: Yes, unless the case is sealed. Speak to an attorney to see if you qualify.
Q: How long does a DUI conviction stay on my Florida driving record?
A: A DUI stays on your Florida driving record for 75 years—essentially for life. It can affect your insurance, future traffic violations, and driving privileges long-term.