A Quick Guide to Getting Your License Reinstated After a DUI
Your driver’s license will probably be taken away from you if you are arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI). You cannot drive legally without a license. Laws vary by state and local jurisdictions for getting your license reinstated after a DUI. Most states will suspend your license for 10 days to a year or more based on your case.
You will be required to apply for a new, reinstated license in most states. You should begin the application process a month before the end of your license suspension period.
Getting Your License Reinstated After a DUI: First-time Offenders
Your license will probably be suspended if you plead guilty or you are convicted in a trial. Your license may be suspended before a trial in some states and returned to you if you are not convicted. Some states may not suspend your license for a first offense based on several factors including your cooperation during a breathalyzer test.
You will likely be required to have an ignition interlock device (IID) installed in your vehicle before you can drive again if you are convicted of a DUI. The laws regarding the IID vary in each state. It may be recommended or made mandatory for first-time offenders. California law requires an IID for the first DUI conviction.
An IID will require you to blow into the device before you can start the car. This device will assure that you cannot operate this vehicle with alcohol in your blood system. Ignition interlock devices from RoadGuard Interlock deliver accurate results, fast.
The court may require you to take a class for people with DUI convictions before your license suspension ends. A court may insist that you complete a DUI program, you are required to show proof before your license can be reinstated.
You will be required to pay a fine and reinstatement fee, based on the laws of the state. You will also be required to show that you have personal liability insurance and vehicle insurance before getting your license reinstated after a DUI. Your insurance premiums will probably go up with a DUI conviction.
BPO License
A BPO license is a temporary permit for Business Purposes Only. This special license is given to hardship cases in some states. The person arrested for a DUI must show that he or she needs to drive for work or for school or to attend a DUI program. It is offered in Florida and other states but not every jurisdiction has this program.
This is a highly restricted permit limited to driving at certain times to and from a given destination. An IID may also be necessary before this special license is issued. You should use this special privilege to demonstrate that you are a responsible driver who should have a regular license after your suspension ends.
Revocation of a License
In some situations, your license may be “revoked” rather than suspended. In this case, the driver does not get his or her license reinstated until the various conditions stated above are met.
You cannot drive at all if your license is revoked. This means that it is taken from you permanently. This often happens with repeat DUI offenders who may also be given jail time. This is the situation that you want to avoid at all costs.
An ignition interlock device will prevent you from operating a vehicle after you have consumed alcohol. Even after consuming one alcoholic beverage, you may feel okay but your reaction time will be slow. Driving sober is the only way to prevent drunk driving.
Contact us at RoadGuard US Interock (DUI) immediately if you need an ignition interlock device. We are here to help you drive safely and get your license reinstated after a DUI.
*Links to any third-party websites herein are provided for your reference and convenience only. RoadGuard Interlock did not create nor develop and does not own any such third-party websites. RoadGuard Interlock does not endorse nor support the content of, nor any opinions stated in any such third-party website links. RoadGuard Interlock is not responsible for the content of any third-party website or its accuracy or reliability. Nothing contained in this article or in any such third-party website shall be considered legal advice or be deemed to constitute legal advice. For any legal advice concerning a DUI arrest, charge, conviction, or consequences thereof, you should contact an attorney of your choice.