DUI Records & DeKalb County Case Search – Fast Official Help

DUI Records capture every official detail from the moment a driver is stopped in DeKalb County until the final court disposition, and they serve as the cornerstone for anyone needing accurate legal or personal information. When you search for DeKalb County DUI records, you’ll encounter arrest data, charge filings, court filings, sentencing notes, and post‑conviction actions such as license suspension or ignition interlock orders. These files are publicly available under the Georgia Open Records Act, yet they differ from general criminal or traffic records, making a focused DeKalb County DUI case search essential for background checks, employment screening, or personal verification. By entering a name, case number, or arrest date into the official DeKalb County portal, you can retrieve DeKalb County DUI case records, DeKalb County DUI court records, and even a certified copy of the file for immigration or licensing purposes. Understanding the distinction between DeKalb County DUI arrest records, DeKalb County DUI charge records, and DeKalb County DUI conviction records helps you avoid common pitfalls and ensures the information you receive reflects the true legal outcome.

DUI Records in DeKalb County are organized by the State Court clerk’s office and linked to the county’s police, the Georgia State Patrol, and the Department of Driver Services, creating a seamless flow from arrest to final judgment. A thorough DeKalb County DUI record search can reveal the case history, including any deferred disposition, probation terms, or court‑ordered hearing notes, and it also shows whether a record has been restricted, sealed, or expunged. Whether you need DeKalb County DUI records online, a DeKalb County DUI record request for a certified copy, or verification of a DeKalb County DUI case number, the online portal provides step‑by‑step guidance for name‑based, date‑based, or case‑number queries. Access to these records empowers individuals to confirm their driving status, assists employers in making informed hiring decisions, and aids attorneys in preparing accurate filings, all while complying with Georgia’s privacy and open‑records statutes.

How to Search DUI Records

You can search DUI records in DeKalb County through the official State Court portal, including criminal records, which displays case information for misdemeanor DUI charges filed within the county. The portal shows active cases, closed cases, dispositions, sentencing details, and license-related actions tied to each DUI arrest. To get started, open the search page, choose your search method, and enter the required information about the person, case number, or arrest date. Results appear instantly for most queries, and you can view or print a summary directly from the portal without creating an account.

Official Search Portal: https://dekalbgastatecourt.gov/

Steps to Search

• Visit the DeKalb County State Court portal at the official URL listed above.
• Click the “Case Search” or “Court Records” link on the homepage navigation.
• Select your search type: name, case number, citation number, or arrest date.
• Enter the last name and first name (or full case number) in the search fields.
• Choose “State Court” as the court division and set the date range if applicable.
• Filter results by case type such as “DUI,” “DUI Less Safe,” or “DUI per Se.”
• Click the case number link to open the full DUI case detail page.
• Review the charges, plea, disposition, sentence, and any license suspension orders.
• Download or print the case summary for your records, or request a certified copy through the Clerk’s Office if needed.

What Are DUI Records? 

DUI Records are official government documents created when a person is charged with driving under the influence in Georgia, capturing arrest data, court proceedings, dispositions, sentences, and post-conviction actions such as license suspensions or ignition interlock orders.

DUI Records serve as the permanent legal history of a driving under the influence charge in Georgia, beginning the moment law enforcement stops a driver suspected of impairment. Each record bundles together arrest reports, chemical test results, court filings, judge-issued orders, and final dispositions into a single searchable case file. In DeKalb County, these files are stored and maintained by the Clerk of State Court and shared with the Georgia Department of Driver Services for license-related actions. Because DUI charges carry criminal penalties, fines, and long-term driving consequences, the record stays accessible for background checks, licensing boards, and law enforcement use throughout your lifetime.

Defining DUI Records: Legal Meaning Under Georgia Law 

Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-391, a person commits DUI when they drive or are in actual physical control of a moving vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other impairing substances to a degree that makes them less safe to drive. Georgia law also defines DUI per Se, which applies when a driver has a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 grams or higher (0.04 for commercial drivers and 0.02 for those under 21). A DUI record captures every element of this statutory violation, including the specific subsection charged, the chemical test results, and the field sobriety observations recorded by the arresting officer.

Core Components of a DUI Record File

A typical DUI record file in DeKalb County contains the arresting officer’s narrative report, the booking sheet, the implied consent warning, the breath or blood test results, the accusation or citation, the arraignment minutes, the plea agreement, the verdict or guilty plea, the sentencing order, and any probation or license suspension documents. Each component is timestamped and signed by the responsible official, creating a complete chain of custody for the case. You will also find the ignition interlock installation order, when applicable, and any risk reduction program completion certificate filed after sentencing.

How DUI Differs from DUI per Se and Lesser-Included Offenses

DUI and DUI per Se are separate charges under § 40-6-391, with DUI per Se requiring only proof of an elevated blood alcohol level regardless of driving behavior. Lesser-included offenses include reckless driving, obstruction, and underage possession, which prosecutors may offer as plea alternatives. A DUI record file reflects the exact offense charged, any amendments made during pretrial negotiations, and whether the lesser charge replaced the original DUI count.

Drugs, Alcohol, and Combined Substance DUI Classifications

Georgia law treats alcohol DUI, drug DUI, and combined substance DUI as distinct categories under § 40-6-391(a)(1) through (a)(6). A drug DUI charge requires evidence that a controlled substance or inhalant impaired the driver, while a combined substance charge alleges impairment from both alcohol and drugs together. The classification appears in the charging document and influences sentencing ranges, treatment program requirements, and license action orders.

Why DUI Records Are Public Records in Georgia

Georgia treats DUI Records as public court records because the state has a strong policy of transparency in judicial proceedings. Members of the public, employers, licensing agencies, and attorneys can request access to these records under state law. Certain personal details remain protected, but the core case information is open for inspection and copying.

Georgia Open Records Act (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70 et seq.)

The Georgia Open Records Act requires state and local agencies to provide access to public records upon written or verbal request. Court records created by the DeKalb County State Court fall under this law, meaning you have a right to view and copy DUI case files unless a specific exemption applies. The Clerk’s Office responds to Open Records requests during regular business hours and charges only the statutory fee for copying and certification.

Federal Driver Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) Restrictions

The federal Driver Privacy Protection Act limits how personal information from state driver records can be disclosed, especially to marketers and private individuals. Georgia DDS complies with the DPPA by requiring permissible use forms before releasing driving history with personal identifiers. Court DUI records remain public, but driver license abstracts follow stricter DPPA rules.

Judicial vs. Administrative DUI Record Disclosure Rules

Judicial DUI records held by the court are disclosed under the Open Records Act, while administrative records held by DDS, such as license suspension orders, are released only to authorized requesters. You can access judicial records without a permissible purpose, but administrative records require a signed release or a qualifying use under the DPPA.

Why People Search DUI Records

People search DUI records for many practical and legal reasons, ranging from personal verification to professional screening. Knowing what these records show and who is entitled to view them helps you prepare for requests, correct errors, and understand your exposure.

Pre-Employment and Tenant Background Checks

Employers in transportation, healthcare, education, and government often run background checks that include DUI records. Landlords may also screen applicants for recent DUI convictions, particularly when the rental property requires driving as part of the lease. A DUI conviction on your record can affect hiring decisions and housing approvals.

Personal Self-Audit and Record Verification

You can search your own DUI record to confirm that the information in the court’s file matches what you remember about your case. Self-audits help you catch clerical errors, outdated disposition statuses, or missing documents that could cause problems later. Many people perform self-audits before applying for jobs, licensing, or travel.

Immigration, Professional Licensing, and Security Clearance

Federal immigration authorities, professional licensing boards, and security clearance investigators routinely request certified DUI records as part of their application review. A DUI conviction, even an old one, can affect visa eligibility, nursing or law license renewals, and federal background investigations. Requesting a certified copy ahead of time lets you verify accuracy before submitting it.

How DeKalb County DUI Records Work: The Court System, Filing Process, and Record Lifecycle

In DeKalb County, DUI cases flow from arrest by municipal police, the DeKalb County Police Department, or the Georgia State Patrol into the DeKalb County State Court at 556 North McDonough Street, Decatur, GA 30030, where prosecutors file charges, judges issue dispositions, and clerks maintain permanent records accessible by request.

The DeKalb County DUI court system handles every misdemeanor DUI case filed in the county, including charges from cities like Decatur, Dunwoody, Brookhaven, and unincorporated areas. After an arrest, the case is forwarded to the State Court for charging, and the Solicitor-General’s Office prosecutes the matter before a State Court judge. The Clerk’s Office stores every document, order, and disposition in the official record file, which remains searchable through the online portal and open for in-person requests during business hours.

The DeKalb County State Court Jurisdiction

The DeKalb County State Court has exclusive jurisdiction over misdemeanor DUI cases filed in the county. Felony DUI charges, such as those involving injury or fourth-offense DUI, are routed to Superior Court, but the vast majority of DUI cases in DeKalb County begin and end in State Court.

Key Government Entities That Create DUI Records in DeKalb County

Multiple agencies contribute to a single DUI record, each providing a different layer of documentation. Understanding who holds which record helps you know where to request specific pieces of information.

DeKalb County State Court Clerk’s Office 

The Clerk’s Office is the official custodian of the court file and the primary contact for record requests, certified copies, and case status checks. The Clerk maintains the docket, indexes each case by defendant name, and stores the physical and electronic file.

DeKalb County Solicitor-General’s Office 

The Solicitor-General’s Office files the accusation, negotiates pleas, and represents the state at trial. This office creates charging documents, discovery materials, and plea offers that become part of the court record.

DeKalb County Police Department and Municipal Agencies

DeKalb County Police, along with city police departments in Decatur, Dunwoody, Brookhaven, and Chamblee, generate the original arrest reports, field sobriety notes, and dashcam evidence. Their reports form the foundation of the DUI arrest record.

Georgia State Patrol and Georgia Department of Driver Services 

The Georgia State Patrol handles DUI arrests on state highways and interstates within DeKalb County, while DDS maintains the driver license file, including administrative suspensions, revocations, and ignition interlock requirements.

The DUI Case Lifecycle: From Arrest to Final Disposition

Every DUI case moves through a predictable sequence of legal stages. Each stage creates its own documents and updates to the official record file.

Traffic Stop, Field Sobriety, and Arrest

An officer stops a driver for a traffic violation or observed erratic driving, administers field sobriety tests, and determines whether probable cause for arrest exists. The officer’s narrative report describes the stop, the driver’s performance, and the arrest decision.

Booking, Chemical Test, and Implied Consent Notice

After arrest, the driver is transported to a DeKalb County precinct or jail for booking, where breath or blood testing occurs. The officer reads the implied consent warning, and the driver either submits or refuses, triggering automatic license consequences under Georgia law.

Court Filing, Arraignment, and Plea Entry

The Solicitor-General files an accusation or the officer issues a citation, and the defendant appears for arraignment to enter a plea. The arraignment minutes are filed with the Clerk, and the case is set for pretrial or trial.

Pretrial Motions, Diversion, or Trial

Defense attorneys file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the case, and prosecutors may offer diversion under O.C.G.A. § 42-8-60 for eligible defendants. If no plea is reached, the case proceeds to trial before a State Court judge or jury.

Sentencing, Probation, and Driver License Action

After conviction or guilty plea, the judge imposes a sentence that may include jail time, fines, community service, probation, and a Risk Reduction Program. DDS receives the conviction report and imposes the corresponding license suspension or revocation.

DUI Record Retention Periods and Update Schedules

DUI Records in DeKalb County are kept indefinitely, but their visibility and update frequency change based on case status. Active cases receive regular updates, while closed cases are archived after final disposition.

Active DUI Case Status and Pending Updates

Cases still in progress are updated within 24 to 72 hours of each new filing, including motions, pleas, and court orders. You can check the portal daily to see the latest docket entry on an active case.

Permanent Retention of Convictions and Sentences

Once a DUI case reaches final disposition, the record is permanently retained in the court’s electronic system and physical archives. Convictions, sentences, and probation completion certificates remain accessible for the rest of the defendant’s life.

When Records Are Archived or Transferred

Older paper files may be transferred to the Georgia State Archives or off-site storage, but electronic docket entries remain live on the portal. Archived files require advance notice for retrieval.

Types of DUI Records in DeKalb County: Arrests, Charges, Dispositions, and Convictions

DeKalb County DUI records exist in seven primary categories—arrest records, charging documents, court records, dispositions, convictions, sentencing orders, and post-conviction actions—each serving distinct legal, employment, and licensing purposes.

Knowing the type of record you need saves time when filing requests or running background checks. Each category holds different data and serves a unique role in the overall DUI case file.

DUI Arrest Records

Arrest records capture the moment law enforcement detained the driver, including the location, time, and circumstances of the stop. These records are kept by the arresting agency and become part of the larger court file once the case is filed.

Booking Information and Chemical Test Results

The booking sheet lists the defendant’s personal details, charges, fingerprints, and photos taken at intake. Chemical test results from breath, blood, or urine samples are attached to the booking record or added shortly afterward.

Implied Consent and Administrative License Suspension (ALS) Actions

When a driver refuses or fails a chemical test, DDS initiates an Administrative License Suspension under O.C.G.A. § 40-5-67.1. The ALS action generates a separate record in the DDS file and a corresponding entry in the court file.

DUI Case Records and Court Filings

Court filings include the formal charging document, pretrial motions, and hearing minutes. These records are managed by the Clerk of State Court and indexed under the case number.

Accusation, Citation, or Warrant Records

The Solicitor-General files an accusation, or the officer issues a uniform traffic citation, to formally charge the driver with DUI. A warrant record appears if the driver failed to appear and a bench warrant was issued.

Arraignment, Plea, and Pretrial Hearing Records

The arraignment minute records the plea entered, while pretrial hearing minutes document motion outcomes, evidence rulings, and trial scheduling. These minutes become part of the official record once signed by the judge.

DUI Disposition Records

Disposition records show the final outcome of the DUI case, including guilty pleas, dismissals, acquittals, and deferred dispositions. This is the section employers and licensing boards review most closely.

Conviction Records

A conviction record reflects a guilty plea, guilty verdict, or nolo contendere plea entered by the defendant. It includes the date of conviction, the statute violated, and the sentence imposed by the court.

Dismissal Records and Acquittal Records

Dismissals occur when the prosecutor drops the charge or the judge grants a motion to dismiss, while acquittals follow a not-guilty verdict at trial. Both outcomes close the case and end the court’s jurisdiction over the matter.

Deferred Disposition Records

Under O.C.G.A. § 42-8-60, certain first-time DUI defendants may qualify for a conditional discharge, which defers judgment and restricts the record upon successful completion. The restricted record shows the original arrest but hides the conviction from most background checks.

Nolle Prosequi and Dead Docket Closures

A nolle prosequi entry means the prosecutor chose not to pursue the charge, while a dead docket closure pauses the case indefinitely. Both entries show that the case is no longer active and remains visible in the docket.

DUI Sentencing and Probation Records

Sentencing records document the penalties the judge imposed after conviction, including jail, fines, and treatment. Probation records track compliance and report any violations during the probationary period.

Jail Time, Fines, and Community Service Orders

The sentencing order specifies the number of days to serve, the dollar amount of fines, and the hours of community service required. Payment receipts and jail credit entries are added to the file as the defendant complies.

DUI Probation Terms and Violation Reports

Probation terms typically include monthly reporting, sobriety testing, and attendance at treatment programs. Violation reports are filed by probation officers if the defendant fails to comply, leading to possible revocation.

DUI Risk Reduction Program (RRP) and Clinical Evaluations

Georgia law requires most DUI offenders to complete a 20-hour Risk Reduction Program approved by DDS. Clinical evaluations determine whether further treatment, such as substance abuse counseling, is necessary, and the results are filed with the court.

Driver License Action Records

DDS maintains a separate file on each DUI defendant showing license suspensions, revocations, and interlock orders. These records run parallel to the court file and affect driving privileges independently.

Driver License Suspension Records

A suspension record shows the start and end dates of a license suspension imposed after conviction or refusal. You can request a certified driving history from DDS to view current and past suspensions.

Driver License Revocation Records

Revocations occur after multiple DUI convictions or certain felony DUI outcomes, and the record reflects the loss of driving privileges for an extended period. Reinstatement requires paying fees, completing programs, and sometimes retesting.

Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Orders and Driving Restrictions

An ignition interlock order requires the driver to install a breath-testing device in their vehicle before driving privileges are restored. The order appears in both the court file and the DDS file.

Administrative License Appeals and Hearing Records

If the driver requests an ALS hearing within 30 days of arrest, DDS schedules a hearing and records the outcome. The hearing decision becomes part of the DDS file and may influence the related court case.

DUI Records vs. Other Public Records

DUI Records overlap with but are distinct from criminal records, arrest records, court records, driving records, and traffic records—understanding these differences is essential for accurate background checks, licensing, and legal research.

Each record type serves a different function and is maintained by a different agency. Mixing them up during a background check or legal research can lead to incomplete or inaccurate results.

DUI Records vs. Related Record Types

DUI Records vs. Criminal Records 

Criminal records compiled by the Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) pull data from every Georgia court and report it as a statewide criminal history. DUI records, by contrast, are the original court files maintained locally in DeKalb County.

Scope, Content, and Reporting Differences

GCIC records show final dispositions across all jurisdictions, while local DUI records include detailed documents like motions, exhibits, and sentencing transcripts. A GCIC summary may simply read “DUI – Guilty,” whereas the DeKalb County file contains the full plea agreement and judge’s order.

Why Some DUI Cases Appear Differently Across Databases

Update lag, jurisdiction differences, and expungement restrictions cause DUI cases to appear inconsistently between databases. A case dismissed in DeKalb County may still appear in older GCIC reports until the next purge cycle.

DUI Records vs. Arrest Records

An arrest record confirms that someone was taken into custody, while a DUI record reflects the full legal outcome of the case. The two records do not always match.

Why an Arrest Does Not Always Appear as a Conviction

Many DUI arrests end in dismissal, nolle prosequi, or acquittal, which means the arrest record exists without a corresponding conviction. Background checks that only search conviction databases will miss dismissed cases, while comprehensive searches reveal the full history.

Arrest-Only Disclosure Rules Under the Open Records Act

Georgia’s Open Records Act permits disclosure of arrest records even when no conviction results, unless the record has been restricted or sealed. This means a dismissed DUI arrest can still appear on a background check for some purposes.

DUI Records vs. General Court Records

General court records encompass every case type filed in the court, while DUI records are a specific subset focused on driving under the influence charges.

DUI-Specific Filings Within the Broader Court File

The DUI-specific filings include the accusation, plea, and sentence, while the broader court file also contains administrative documents like cover sheets, scheduling orders, and transfer minutes. Knowing the difference helps you pinpoint the right document quickly.

DUI Records vs. Driving Records (MVR)

Driving records maintained by DDS show license status, points, and suspensions, while DUI records show the underlying criminal case. The two records often overlap but serve different verification purposes.

Driver License Points, Suspensions, and HTV Status

Georgia uses a points system, and a DUI conviction adds points to the driving record, often combined with a Hard-to-Verify (HTV) status that triggers license review. The driving record reflects the administrative impact of the conviction.

Why a DUI Conviction Appears on Both Records

Courts forward conviction reports to DDS, which updates the driving record to show the conviction and any associated suspension. This dual reporting is why a DUI shows up in both court and DDS searches.

DUI Records vs. Traffic Records

Traffic records cover minor moving violations like speeding and failure to maintain lane, while DUI records cover criminal driving offenses involving impairment.

Why DUI Is Not a “Traffic Ticket” in Georgia

DUI is classified as a misdemeanor criminal offense in Georgia, not a traffic infraction. This classification triggers higher fines, possible jail time, and mandatory license actions that ordinary traffic tickets do not carry.

Classification Differences in MVR Reporting

Traffic violations are reported as points-based infractions, while DUI convictions are reported as major offenses that can lead to license revocation. The MVR distinguishes between the two using specific violation codes.

Certified DUI Records: Request Process, Fees, and Processing Times in DeKalb County

A Certified DUI Record is an officially stamped copy of a DeKalb County DUI case file authenticated by the Clerk of Court, required for immigration, professional licensing, and federal background check purposes, and available for a small statutory fee during business hours.

Certified copies carry the court seal and clerk’s signature, confirming that the document is a true and accurate copy of the official record. Many agencies refuse uncertified printouts, making certification essential for official use.

What Is a Certified DUI Record?

A certified DUI record is a duplicate of the original court file or a specific document, such as the disposition or sentencing order, that bears the Clerk’s authentication. The certification verifies the document’s origin and accuracy.

Certified Copy vs. Plain Copy

A plain copy shows the document’s content but lacks legal authentication, while a certified copy carries a raised or stamped seal and the Clerk’s signature. Courts, immigration offices, and licensing boards typically require the certified version.

Court Seal, Clerk Signature, and Authentication Standards

The Georgia court seal and the Clerk’s signature confirm authenticity under state law, and the certification language references the case number, document title, and certification date. Federal and state agencies accept this authentication as proof of a true copy.

How to Request a Certified DUI Record

You can request a certified DUI record online, by mail, or in person at the Clerk’s Office. Each method requires specific identification and authorization to protect the privacy of the record subject.

Online vs. In-Person Certified Requests

The online portal allows you to view and print plain copies, but certified copies usually require an in-person visit or a mail-in request with a notarized authorization form. The Clerk processes online payment for certain certified documents through the portal.

Required Identification and Authorization Forms

You must present a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, to obtain a certified copy of your own record. Third-party requesters need a signed authorization from the record subject along with their own ID.

Third-Party Authorization for Attorneys and Family Members

Attorneys representing a client in a DUI case may obtain certified copies using a signed consent letter or a court-issued subpoena. Family members need a notarized authorization or a power of attorney document.

Fees, Payment Methods, and Receipts

Georgia law sets specific fees for certified DUI records, and the Clerk’s Office accepts several forms of payment. Receipts are issued for every transaction and should be kept for reimbursement or audit needs.

Standard Per-Page and Certification Fees

The Clerk charges a per-page copying fee plus a flat certification fee, both set by state statute. The total cost depends on the size of the case file and the number of documents certified.

Accepted Payment Methods at the Clerk’s Office

The Clerk’s Office accepts cash, money orders, and major credit or debit cards for in-person requests. Mail-in requests typically require a money order or certified check made payable to the Clerk of State Court.

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Certified DUI record requests are processed in the order received, with most completed within a standard turnaround window. Expedited options exist for time-sensitive requests but depend on staff availability.

Standard Turnaround 

Routine certified copy requests take five to ten business days to process, especially if the file is archived or large. You receive the certified documents by mail or pickup at the Clerk’s Office window.

Rush Requests and Same-Day Availability Limitations

Rush requests are handled on a case-by-case basis and may incur an additional expedite fee. Same-day certification is possible for active files when the request is submitted early in the business day.

Use Cases for Certified DUI Records

Certified DUI records are required for many official proceedings where standard printouts are not accepted. Knowing your use case helps you request the right documents the first time.

Immigration and Visa Applications

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and consulates require certified court records for DUI convictions when reviewing visa, green card, or citizenship applications. The certified copy proves the conviction date and sentence.

Professional Licensing Boards 

Boards such as the Georgia Board of Nursing, the State Bar of Georgia, and the Professional Standards Commission request certified DUI records as part of their licensing and disciplinary reviews. A certified copy carries the weight of official evidence.

Federal Employment and Security Clearance Filings

Federal agencies conducting background investigations require certified DUI records to verify the accuracy of self-reported criminal history. Submitting certified copies speeds up the clearance process.

Sealed, Expunged, and Restricted DUI Records in DeKalb County

Most Georgia DUI convictions cannot be expunged, but cases dismissed or resolved through certain diversion programs may be eligible for record restriction under O.C.G.A. § 42-8-60, while sealed records remain accessible to courts, law enforcement, and specific licensing agencies.

Record restriction, sealing, and expungement each operate differently under Georgia law. Understanding which option applies to your case determines who can still see your DUI record after the legal process concludes.

Georgia DUI Record Expungement Eligibility 

Georgia law restricts expungement to cases that did not result in a conviction, with limited exceptions. Most DUI convictions cannot be expunged, no matter how old they are.

Why Most DUI Convictions Are Ineligible for Expungement

DUI convictions are listed among the offenses that remain on a person’s record permanently under § 35-3-37. Even after probation is completed, the conviction stays visible in court and GCIC searches.

Limited Eligibility for Dismissed or Nolle Prosequied Cases

If your DUI charge was dismissed, nolle prosequied, including probate court records, or you were found not guilty, you may petition the court for expungement under § 35-3-37. The petition requires a filing fee and a hearing before a State Court judge.

Record Restriction Under O.C.G.A. § 42-8-60 

First-time DUI offenders with no prior criminal record may qualify for conditional discharge under § 42-8-60, which restricts the record upon successful completion of probation. The restriction hides the conviction from most background checks but keeps the arrest visible.

How Restricted DUI Records Appear in Background Checks

Restricted records appear as “restricted access” or “conditionally discharged” entries on GCIC reports, with the original conviction hidden from general view. Employers running standard checks will not see the conviction unless they have a DPPA-permissible purpose.

Who Can Still Access a Restricted DUI Record

Law enforcement agencies, courts, and certain licensing boards can still view restricted DUI records. Employers in healthcare, education, and government can also request access under the DPPA.

Sealed DUI Records and Limited Public Access

Sealed records are not destroyed but are hidden from public view. Only specific agencies and officials can access them.

Difference Between Sealed and Expunged Records

Sealed records still exist physically and electronically but are restricted from public access, while expunged records are destroyed or returned to the subject. Sealing is more common in Georgia than full expungement.

Court-Ordered Sealing Procedures in DeKalb County

A petition to seal must be filed in the DeKalb County State Court where the DUI case was adjudicated. The judge reviews the petition, and if granted, the Clerk seals the file and notifies GCIC.

Access by Law Enforcement, Courts, and Licensing Boards

Even sealed DUI records are accessible to law enforcement, prosecutors, judges, and licensing boards for official purposes. Background checks for these agencies reveal the sealed information, while private employers do not see it.

Contact Information

The DeKalb County State Court Clerk’s Office is the primary contact for DUI record searches, certified copies, and case status inquiries. You can reach the office by phone, visit in person during business hours, or use the official online portal.

• Office Location: 556 North McDonough Street, Decatur, GA 30030
• Phone Number: (404) 371-2261
• Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

Frequently Asked Questions

Find quick answers about locating, viewing, and obtaining DUI records in DeKalb County.

How can I search DeKalb County DUI records online?

Visit the Georgia State Court portal at https://dekalbgastatecourt.gov/. Choose the DUI case search option, then enter the name, case number, or arrest date. The system returns active and closed cases, showing charges, dispositions, and any license actions. Results appear on screen instantly, and you can print or save them for personal use. No fee is required for the online view, but copying or certification may involve a charge.

What information appears in a DeKalb DUI case lookup?

A case lookup displays the defendant’s name, case number, arrest date, and charge details. It also shows the court’s judgment, sentencing, probation terms, and any license suspension or interlock orders. If the case is closed, the final disposition such as conviction, dismissal, or acquittal is listed. The record may include hearing dates and the judge’s name, giving a clear picture of the case outcome.

Can I request a certified copy of a DUI record in DeKalb?

Yes. Submit a DUI record request to the DeKalb County Clerk’s Office at 556 North McDonough Street, Decatur, GA. Provide the person’s name, case number, and a valid ID. Pay the required fee, then the office prepares a certified copy that bears the clerk’s seal. Certified copies are accepted by courts, employers, and licensing agencies as official proof of the DUI case history.

How long does a DeKalb DUI record request take?

Processing typically takes five to ten business days after the request and fee are received. Simple cases with clear information may be completed faster, while records that need verification or have privacy restrictions can require additional time. You can call (404) 371-2261 to check the status of your request during office hours.

Who can access public DUI records in DeKalb County?

Anyone may view DUI records that are not sealed or expunged through the state court portal. Law‑enforcement agencies, attorneys, and employers often request certified copies for official purposes. Restricted records, such as those involving minors or sealed cases, are limited to the parties involved and their legal representatives.