QUICK ANSWER
After a DUI arrest in Port St. Lucie, Florida, your case will be handled through St. Lucie County courts. You have 10 days from your arrest to request a DHSMV hearing to fight license suspension. Florida allows plea bargaining to "wet reckless" — but judges cannot withhold adjudication for DUI convictions.
DUI in Port St. Lucie by the Numbers
What Makes Port St. Lucie Different
Port St. Lucie is one of Florida's fastest-growing cities. I-95 and US-1 are common enforcement corridors. St. Lucie County has a dedicated DUI court program.
⚠️ 10-Day DHSMV Deadline
You must request a DHSMV hearing within 10 days of arrest. This extends your temporary driving permit to 42 days. Miss this deadline and your suspension is automatic — no exceptions.
Port St. Lucie Court Information
St. Lucie County Criminal Court
Handles DUI criminal cases in St. Lucie County
Florida DUI Penalties Summary
1st Offense DUI
Up to 6 mo jail, $500-$1,000 fines, 180-day suspension, 50 hrs community service
2nd Offense (5 yr)
10 days-9 mo jail (10 days mandatory), $1K-$2K fines, 5-yr revocation, IID 2 years
3rd Offense (10 yr) = FELONY
Up to 5 yr prison, $2K-$5K fines, 10-yr revocation, IID 2 years
4th+ Offense = FELONY
Up to 5 yr prison, PERMANENT revocation, no hardship available
Hardship License Options
First offenders can choose: challenge the suspension (formal review) or accept it and get immediate hardship driving privileges (waiver review). An attorney can help you decide which path is best.
Learn about hardship licenses →Port St. Lucie DUI FAQs
Does St. Lucie County have DUI court?
Yes. St. Lucie County operates a DUI Court program for repeat offenders, offering treatment-focused alternatives to incarceration.
Nearby Florida Cities
Last updated: February 2026