A third-offense DUI (Driving Under the Influence) means a person has been arrested and charged with DUI for the **third time within the “look-back” period set by their state. A look-back period is the number of years a court is allowed to count prior DUI convictions against the driver — commonly 5, 7, or 10 years, though some states count *lifetime* priors. Because a third DUI shows a repeat pattern of impaired driving, it is treated far more seriously than first or second offenses.

In many states, a third-offense DUI is automatically  3rd offense dui  considered a **gross misdemeanor or a felony**, especially if there are aggravating factors such as high blood alcohol content, injuries, a minor in the car, or refusal to submit to testing. Penalties typically escalate sharply. Common consequences include **mandatory jail or prison time**, which can range from several months to a year or more. Courts usually impose **long driver’s license revocation**, sometimes for 3–10 years, and may require **ignition interlock devices** once the person becomes eligible to drive again.

A third-offense DUI almost always brings very high fines, often thousands of dollars once court fees, surcharges, and program costs are included. Many jurisdictions require **substance abuse evaluation and treatment**, extended **probation**, **community service**, and **Victim Impact Panels**. In some areas, vehicles may be **impounded or forfeited**, and insurance rates typically skyrocket or coverage is dropped entirely. Employment and housing consequences also become far more severe with a felony-level conviction.

Because of the repeat nature of the offense, courts view a third DUI not as a single lapse in judgment but as an **ongoing public-safety risk**. That is why penalties are designed to be both punitive and corrective — they punish, separate the driver from the roadway for a long period, and force treatment in an attempt to change behavior.