Travelling with a DUI on Your Record

Travelling to other countries and even states could be difficult with a DUI on your criminal record. If you are planning a trip, research your destination to ensure that your travels will be smooth.

Each country has its own laws relating to convictions for driving under the influence and other criminal convictions. Some are extremely strict and prohibit entry for certain people depending on their offense. For example, Canada is very strict on admitting people with DUIs, treating a DUI as a serious criminal offense. In all likelihood your DUI conviction will be considered more severe in Canada because the country evaluates convictions under its own strict laws. If your DUI is less than 10 years old, you will probably be denied entry. You have limited options to get around the laws, such as applying for a temporary residence permit.

Mexico has similar strict laws to Canada. Most people with DUI convictions less than 10 years old will be denied entry into Mexico. Unlike Canada and Mexico, the European Union countries are more lenient – a DUI is not a prohibited offense for purposes of entry into those countries. Countries in the Middle East are strict and have varying requirements for entry. Keep in mind that laws are extremely different around the world, and you must check travel requirements before you leave.

Travelling to the United States from Canada, Mexico, or other countries will cause you fewer problems. The United States restricts immigration by people who have committed crimes involving moral turpitude – such as murder, theft, and more. The United States is also very strict on people who have committed drug crimes. DUI violations usually do not fit these requirements. People with multiple DUIs, though, may have trouble with entry and need to apply for a waiver.

If you plan to leave the state where you committed the DUI and travel to another American state, your record will travel with you due to the Interstate Driver’s License Compact. You may have difficulty obtaining an unrestricted driver’s license or renting a car in other states. Police in other states may be able to pull up your record if you are arrested there.

Drivers whose licenses were revoked will want to obtain an alternative method of identification for travelling, such as a state ID card or a passport. Finally, you may be on probation from your DUI offense and need to notify your probation officer that you plan to travel. Again, research your destination before you go.

Need an attorney for DUI charges in Oklahoma? Seek out the attorney who is in court nearly every day and teaches other attorneys and law enforcement about sobriety testing techniques. Clint Patterson, Esq., of Patterson Law Firm, a former Tulsa prosecutor now using his trial experience and expert-level knowledge of DUI science to defend drivers, has the experience and the insight to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your case. To schedule a case evaluation, visit Patterson Law Firm online or call Clint’s office at (918) 550-9175.