In California, prosecutors and the DMV can look back 10 years to see if there is a DUI conviction on your driving record to automatically increase your punishment.
A DUI stays on your California driving record for 10 years and cannot be removed early. The DMV uses this 10-year period to determine “priorable” offenses — meaning any DUI within 10 years can increase penalties for a new DUI arrest.
On your criminal record, a DUI stays indefinitely unless it’s dismissed, reduced, or later expunged through the court. Even with an expungement, certain agencies (courts, police, government licensing boards) can still see the conviction.
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