If you get caught driving under the influence in California for the first time, it can cost you much more than you think.

Many people who are not familiar with the process assume it will only be a fine of about $1,000, but that is absolutely not the case. It's not just a fine; there are various costs that add up.

The fine you typically have to pay in court ranges from $400 to $1,000, but with various fees, it actually comes to about $2,000. Additionally, hiring a lawyer usually costs between $2,500 and $5,000. If the case involves a second or third offense or results in an injury, the lawyer's fees can exceed $20,000 to reduce jail time.

However, surprisingly many people try to handle their DUI without a lawyer. Most end up confused by the much more complicated procedures than they expected. If your blood alcohol concentration was low, there were no additional charges like accidents or injuries, and you submitted your documents carefully without missing the DMV administrative hearing date, it might be possible to resolve it without a lawyer.

On the other hand, most failed cases without a lawyer occur due to poor initial responses.

For example, failing to request a hearing with the DMV within 10 days results in an automatic license suspension, missing a court appearance leads to an arrest warrant, or lacking negotiation experience with the prosecutor results in unfavorable plea deals. Ultimately, this leads to fines, increased insurance rates, and a criminal record. LA County has very strict DUI enforcement, which can lead to long-term disadvantages.

Now, let's talk about the costs again. First, the court requires you to attend a "DUI education program." This is an educational program designed to prevent you from drinking and driving again. A 3-month program costs about $700, while a 9-month program costs around $1,500. For repeat offenders, there is an 18-month program, which is much more expensive.

If your license is suspended, you will need to pay about $125 to restore it at the DMV, and if your car was towed, the towing and storage fees will exceed $300. However, the biggest expense comes from car insurance. When you get a DUI, the insurance company views you as a "high-risk driver" and raises your premiums two to three times. For someone who originally paid $1,500 a year, they might end up paying over $4,000. Just calculating for three years, the insurance cost can increase by nearly $10,000.

Another factor is the 'IID' device. This is a machine that requires the driver to blow into it before starting the car to check for alcohol. If any alcohol is detected, the car won't start. This device is now mandatory for almost all DUI offenders in California. The installation cost is about $100, and the monthly maintenance fee ranges from $70 to $100. Typically, you have to keep it for about 6 months to a year, so the total cost is around $500 to $1,200.

Additionally, you have to go for inspections once a month, which can be a hassle.

If you are under 21, the situation is even more serious. This age group is under 'zero tolerance,' meaning you can get caught even if you have just a sip of alcohol. If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.01% or higher, your license will be immediately suspended. At this point, not only do you face fines, but you also have to attend a special education program with your parents, and additional administrative costs apply. Overall, this can cost between $4,000 and over $10,000.

The license suspension lasts at least a year, during which you cannot drive to school or work. In summary, if you get a DUI in California for the first time, adults can expect to pay around $8,000 to $15,000, while minors can exceed $10,000.

A single drink can end up being a $10,000 mistake. That's why local police and traffic safety campaigns say, "If you're going to drive, never drink, and if you've been drinking, never drive." That's the cheapest and safest way to go.