How Out-of-State Drivers Are Affected by a Las Vegas DUI

Cyril Balatero on October 28, 2025

As a popular tourist destination, Las Vegas hosts millions of visitors from out-of-state and even foreign countries every year. Unfortunately, the popular saying “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas” does not apply if you are charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in Las Vegas. On the contrary, if you are an out-of-state driver, a Nevada DUI can follow you home and impact your future and even your freedom. If you are facing DUI charges in Las Vegas, contact The Vegas Lawyers today by calling (725) 217-4768 to schedule your free consultation.

Las Vegas DUI for out-of-state driver - The Vegas Lawyers

Nevada DUI Laws

Regardless of where you call home, you are subject to Nevada law if you choose to operate a vehicle on a public roadway within the state. It is a criminal offense in Nevada to operate a motor vehicle on a public roadway under any of the following conditions:

  • You are under the influence of intoxicating liquor.
  • You have a concentration of alcohol of 0.08 or more in your blood or breath.
  • You are found by measurement within 2 hours after driving or being in actual physical control of a vehicle to have a concentration of alcohol of 0.08 or more in your blood or breath.
  • You are under the influence of a controlled substance.
  • You are under the combined influence of intoxicating liquor and a controlled substance.
  • You have inhaled, ingested, applied or otherwise used any chemical, poison or organic solvent, or any compound or combination of any of these, to a degree which renders you incapable of safely driving or exercising actual physical control of a vehicle.

What Are the Penalties for a DUI Conviction in Las Vegas?

If you are charged and convicted of a DUI in Nevada, you may face the following judicial penalties:

  • First DUI within a seven-year period: Charged as a misdemeanor (if there are no aggravating circumstances). Punishable by two days to six months in jail or 48 to 96 hours of community service, a license suspension of 180 days, mandatory attendance at a victim impact panel and attendance at DUI school along with fines of up to $1,000 and court costs.
  • Second DUI within seven years: Charged as a misdemeanor (if no aggravating circumstances). You face a jail term of 10 days to six months, installation of an ignition interlock device for six months to three years, mandatory attendance at a victim impact panel, attendance at DUI school, fines of up to $1,000 and court costs.
  • Third DUI within a seven-year period: Charged as a Class B Felony. Punishable by one to six years, a fine of $2,000 to $5,000, mandatory attendance at a victim impact panel, a license suspension of three years, and the installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle for one to three years.
  • Previous felony conviction for DUI or caused substantial bodily harm or death: Charged as a Class B Felony. Punishable by one to six years, a fine of $2,000 to $5,000, mandatory attendance at a victim impact panel, a license suspension of three years, and the installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle for one to three years.
  • Cause the death of another person (vehicular homicide) while driving under the influence, and you have three or more previous convictions for DUI: Charged as a Class B felony, punishable by 25 years to life in prison.

What Are the Non-Judicial Consequences of a DUI in Nevada?

Along with the court-imposed sentence you receive if convicted of a DUI in Nevada, you may also face non-judicial consequences. For example, the financial impact of a DUI conviction can be significant. In addition to paying substantial fines and court fees, you may also be responsible for the expenses related to probation supervision, the installation and maintenance of an ignition interlock device, and any mandatory alcohol or drug treatment programs. Your auto insurance rates will likely rise dramatically for several years after a conviction, and a DUI conviction may negatively impact your current job or future career. Specifically, jobs that require driving may not be available, and if you are a licensed professional such as a teacher, attorney, or healthcare worker, you may face disciplinary action or even lose your license.

Special Concerns for Out-of-State Drivers Charged with DUI in Las Vegas

One of the most important concerns for out-of-state drivers facing DUI charges in Las Vegas is license suspension in both Nevada and in their home state. Because Nevada is part of the Interstate Driver’s License Compact (DLC) and the Non-Resident Violator Compact (NRVC), Nevada is required to share information about traffic offenses with other member states, including an arrest for DUI. Consequently, you could face judicial and administrative penalties in both Nevada and in your home state.

From a practical standpoint, an out-of-state driver facing criminal charges in Nevada will need to arrange for bond and may be required to appear for future court appearances, which can be complicated and costly. Hiring a local criminal defense attorney is often the best way to avoid the need to physically appear in court for preliminary hearings in a Las Vegas DUI prosecution.

What Should I Do If I Am an Out-of-State Driver Facing a DUI in Las Vegas?

If you are an out-of-state driver charged with DUI in Las Vegas, consult with the experienced Las Vegas DUI defense attorneys at The Vegas Lawyers as soon as possible to discuss your next steps. Call us at 702-707-7000 or contact us online.