Searching for Virginia DUI mugshots or DUI arrest photos involves navigating a mix of public records, law enforcement policies, and strict state privacy laws. In Virginia, a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is a serious criminal offense, and the resulting booking photo is technically a public record but accessing it isn’t always a “one-click” process.
Are DUI Mugshots Public Record in Virginia?
Under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (VFOIA), adult arrest information is public. However, the booking photograph specifically falls under “discretionary release.”
- Law Enforcement Discretion: While police can release a DUI mugshot, they are not always required to do so if it doesn’t serve a law enforcement purpose (like finding a fugitive).
- The 2026 Shift: With the full implementation of the Clean Slate Act in July 2026, many DUI arrests that do not lead to convictions—or certain misdemeanor convictions after a long period of “good behavior”may be automatically sealed. Once sealed, these photos are legally removed from public FOIA access.
- Virginia Federal Arrest Mugshots vs. State Arrest Photos
- Virginia DUI Mugshots: Search DUI Arrest Booking Photos
- How Long Do Mugshots Stay Online in Virginia?
- Are Virginia Mugshots Public Record? FOIA & Booking Photo Access
- Virginia Mugshot Laws: What’s Legal to Publish and What Isn’t
Checklist for DUI Mugshots
| Step | Action |
| Search Official Sites | Check the local Sheriff’s “Inmate Search” first. |
| Verify the Law | Remember VA Code § 18.2-186.4:1—never pay for removal. |
| Check 2026 Status | See if your record is eligible for the Clean Slate automatic sealing. |
| Contact the Webmaster | Send a formal request citing Virginia law if the case was dismissed. |
How to Search for DUI Arrest Photos in Virginia?
If you are looking for a specific DUI mugshot, you generally have three primary avenues:
1. Local Sheriff’s Office “Jail Records”
Most DUI arrests result in the individual being taken to a regional jail or county detention center. Many Virginia Sheriffs maintain an online “Inmate Search” or “Daily Booking Gallery.”
- Common Counties: Fairfax, Prince William, Chesterfield, and Henrico often have robust online portals.
- Search Tip: Look for “Recent Bookings” or “Inmate Inquiry” on the official county website. These photos often stay up only while the person is in custody or for a short window (24–72 hours) post-arrest.
2. Court Case Imaging (Online Records)
While the mugshot itself may not be on the court’s website, the arrest record and disposition are.
- You can use the Virginia Judiciary Online Case Information System to search by name and see if a DUI charge exists.
- If the case is active, the physical file at the courthouse may contain a copy of the photo, which can sometimes be viewed (but not always copied) in person.
3. Third-Party Aggregator Sites
Sites like Arrests.org or BustedMugshots scrape data from Virginia jails.
- Warning: These sites are often inaccurate or outdated.
- Legal Note: Under VA Code § 18.2-186.4:1, these sites cannot charge you a fee to remove a DUI mugshot. If they ask for money, they are committing a Class 1 misdemeanor.
How to Remove a DUI Mugshot in Virginia?
If your DUI arrest photo is currently online and causing harm to your reputation, you have legal tools to fight back:
- Expungement/Sealing: If your DUI was dismissed, “Nolle Prosequi,” or you were found not guilty, you can petition for an expungement. Once granted, the state must remove the photo from public view.
- The 2026 “Automatic Sealing” Rule: Starting July 2026, many non-conviction DUI records will be sealed automatically. You can then use this legal status to demand third-party websites take the photo down.
- Google Outdated Content Tool: If the website removes the photo but it still shows in Google Images, use the Google Refresh Outdated Content tool to force the search engine to clear its cache.