How long does a DUI stay on your record in California?

A charge of driving under the influence, or DUI, stays on a driver's record for 10 years in California, according to Nolo.com. If a driver is convicted of a subsequent DUI, a prior conviction counts against him when the court considers sentencing.

A driver charged with DUI may be able to plead the charge down to "wet reckless," which is a less serious offense of reckless driving involving alcohol. Being able to plead down to the lesser charge depends on the driver's blood-alcohol content at the time of his arrest, the driver's prior record and if no accident was caused during the commission of the offense.