Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

What is the penalty for a first offense DUI in terms of license suspension?

1. 30 day suspension

2. 7 day administrative suspension

3. 60 day suspension

4. Permanent suspension

The correct answer is: 7 day administrative suspension

The penalty for a first offense DUI typically includes a 7-day administrative suspension of the driver's license. This immediate action is taken as a way to address the potential risk posed by a driver who has been found operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The 7-day suspension serves both as a deterrent and a means of protecting public safety while providing the driver an opportunity to address the situation before more severe penalties may be imposed. The other options represent different durations of license suspensions that apply to other scenarios or repeat offenses rather than a first offense DUI. For instance, a 30-day or 60-day suspension might be a consequence of subsequent DUI offenses or could apply to other infractions unrelated to driving under the influence. A permanent suspension would generally be reserved for the most serious offenses or multiple DUI convictions over time.