How Serious Are Student DUIs at the University of Tennessee?

 Posted on December 20, 2025 in University of Tennessee Knoxville College Students

DUI charges are always serious, whether brought against an adult or a student at the University of Tennessee. The consequences of a student DUI are generally much more serious than most people think. When a student is charged with a DUI, not only will he or she face the criminal consequences associated with those charges, but a DUI can trigger university discipline and affect academic standing, housing, internships, scholarships, and even future job prospects.

In short, for a UT student facing DUI charges, the consequences can alter the student’s future in ways they could not have imagined. If your student is facing DUI charges, it is crucial that you obtain the best Grainger County criminal defense lawyer who will aggressively fight the charges while also assisting with the university investigation. The more you understand the long-term risks of a DUI conviction for your student, the better chance you have of limiting the damage.

Why Are Student DUIs Treated So Seriously in Tennessee?

Tennessee does not give students special treatment when it comes to DUI charges. In fact, courts treat student drivers the same as any adult. At the same time, universities like the University of Tennessee often impose their own penalties, even when the DUI did not happen on campus. This means a student will face two separate systems of punishment: criminal court and university discipline.

The BAC limit for a student is the same as for any Tennessee adult – 0.08 percent. A driver can also be charged with a DUI when his or her BAC level is below the 0.08 threshold if the officer believes impairment altered the individual’s ability to drive safely. For students, DUI charges often occur after campus events, sporting events, or a night out with friends near campus.

If the student is under 21 – and many college freshmen and sophomores are under 21 – Tennessee’s zero-tolerance laws kick in. An underage student with a BAC of 0.02 percent or higher can face penalties even when not charged with a "standard" DUI. Underage alcohol violations can trigger school discipline separate from criminal charges.

What Are the Penalties for a First-Time Tennessee DUI?  

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security details the penalties for a DUI conviction. A first-time DUI conviction can result in between 48 hours and 11 months and 29 days in jail and a license revocation for one year. The individual will be ordered to participate in an alcohol and drug treatment program, and for those with a .20 BAC or greater, there is a minimum jail time of seven consecutive days.

The individual may be ordered to pay restitution to any person who was physically injured or suffered personal loss as a result of the impairment. The fines can range from $350 to $1,500. Having a car towed, bail, hiring an attorney, paying for high-risk car insurance, court costs, and reinstatement fees can make a first-time DUI cost as much as $5,000. An ignition interlock device may be ordered by the judge and installed at the defendant’s expense. The minimum first-year costs could exceed $1,000.  

What Are the Disciplinary Consequences of a DUI at the University of Tennessee?

DUI-related conduct can be disciplined under the student code of conduct. Consequences could include:

• Disciplinary probation
• Suspension
• Expulsion
• Loss of campus housing
• Mandatory counseling or alcohol education programs
• Scholarships and financial aid are at risk
• Some academic programs, internships, or professional licenses can be affected.

Unique Issues Associated with Student DUIs

Student DUIs often involve unique issues, such as campus police stops, dorm searches, or joint investigations between UT and local law enforcement. When mistakes are made early on (such as statements to police or school officials), the student’s case can be placed in serious jeopardy. An experienced Tennessee DUI attorney can evaluate the entire process, from the initial stop to the testing procedures, to determine whether the student’s rights were violated.

Contact a Rutledge, TN DUI Lawyer

If your University of Tennessee student is facing DUI charges, you must take these charges seriously. A Grainger County, TN criminal defense attorney from The Baker Law Firm can help you understand the criminal and academic consequences, while working to limit long-term damage. Schedule your free consultation by calling 865-200-4117.