A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) conviction in Kansas can have significant repercussions on employment, affecting both current job status and future career prospects. Understanding these impacts is crucial for individuals navigating the aftermath of a DUI conviction.
1. Immediate Impact on Current Employment
Job Termination
- A DUI conviction may lead to job loss, especially if the role involves driving or is within sectors that emphasize safety and public trust (e.g., healthcare, education, law enforcement).
- Many employers have strict policies prohibiting criminal convictions, and a DUI could be grounds for termination.
- If a DUI conviction violates company policy or damages the company’s reputation, the employer may legally dismiss the employee.
License Suspension and Job Performance
- A DUI often results in a driver’s license suspension, which can prevent an employee from fulfilling work-related travel obligations.
- Employees who drive company vehicles or hold Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) may face mandatory termination due to insurance restrictions.
- Even in non-driving jobs, some employers may consider a DUI a liability concern and take disciplinary action.
2. Long-Term Effects on Future Employment
Background Checks and Job Applications
- Most Kansas employers conduct criminal background checks as part of the hiring process.
- A DUI conviction will remain on your record indefinitely unless expunged.
- Industries with strict background check policies (e.g., law enforcement, government, financial services, and childcare) may automatically disqualify applicants with a DUI.
Professional Licenses
- Many professions require a state-issued license, and a DUI can trigger disciplinary action from licensing boards.
- Healthcare workers: The Kansas Board of Healing Arts may review a DUI conviction and impose sanctions.
- Attorneys: The Kansas State Bar may take disciplinary action if a DUI involves reckless behavior or multiple offenses.
- Teachers: The Kansas Department of Education reviews DUI convictions when issuing or renewing teaching credentials.
- Commercial Drivers: A DUI results in a one-year disqualification of a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), even for first-time offenders.
3. How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in Kansas?
- Criminal Record: A DUI remains indefinitely unless expunged.
- Background Checks: Kansas law limits reporting DUI convictions to 7 years for jobs paying under $20,000 per year. However, for most jobs, DUIs remain indefinitely unless expunged.
- Driving Record: A DUI stays on your Kansas driving record for life, but it typically only affects insurance rates for 3-5 years.
4. Ways to Minimize Employment Consequences After a DUI
DUI Expungement in Kansas
- Kansas allows DUI expungement after:
- 5 years for a first-time offense.
- 10 years for repeat offenses.
- Expungement removes the conviction from public background checks, improving employment prospects.
- Employers will not see an expunged DUI on standard background checks, but law enforcement and some state agencies still have access.
DUI Diversion Program
- First-time offenders may qualify for Kansas’s DUI Diversion Program:
- Requires completing an alcohol education program and avoiding further offenses.
- Successful completion results in case dismissal, meaning no conviction appears on record.
- Not all offenders qualify—cases involving accidents, injuries, or high BAC levels may be ineligible.
Being Honest With Employers
- If asked about a DUI during a job interview, honesty is recommended.
- Emphasizing rehabilitation efforts, such as completing DUI programs or maintaining a clean record, may help persuade employers.
Conclusion
A DUI conviction in Kansas can limit job opportunities, lead to termination, and affect professional licenses. However, seeking expungement, completing diversion programs, and demonstrating rehabilitation can help mitigate long-term employment consequences.
For assistance with DUI-related compliance or ignition interlock requirements, contact Clear2Drive at 855-261-3944.
Sources:
- Navigating the Complexities of DUI Charges in Kansas
- Kansas DUI Penalties & Laws | Irigonegaray & Revenaugh
- The Effect of a DUI on Your Job | Kitchin Law Firm
- Effects of a DWI on your current and future employment
- Collateral Consequences of a DUI in Kansas – Norton Hare
- Guide to Kansas’s DUI Diversion Program | Irigonegaray & Revenaugh
