If you choose to take a chance on drinking and driving, you should consider all of the consequences, and there are many. First, there is the criminal record that, if convicted, stays with you for the rest of your life. You must also consider the fines, which can begin at $1,000 and reach up to $10,000 for a 3rd offense; court fees, which vary widely by state; and the towing costs ($200 or more) of having an immediate driver's license suspension. There is an additional fee to get your license reinstated, which is often approximately $100 to $125, as well. That doesn't even include the possible lost wages for jail time, as well as the costs of getting to work without a car during your license suspension period. Add to that the increased insurance costs and lawyer's fees, and your DUI fee can reach $8,000 or more even for a first offense.