When you get convicted of a DUI, you are likely to face an entire host of punishments, from steep fines to short prison stays. One of the most common punishments is the suspension of a driver’s license, and these suspensions can last for a long time. This can obviously be a major inconvenience, so our clients often ask us if it’s possible to get a license back earlier. It’s a possibility, but it’s not guaranteed. A DUI lawyer in Montgomery County, PA can tell you if you’re a good candidate to ask for early reinstatement of your driving privileges.
How Does the License Suspension Process Work?
If you are convicted of a DUI, you are probably going to have your license suspended. Some first-time offenders can avoid this penalty, but a suspension is still possible. You will have to surrender your license to PennDOT, the state’s Department of Transportation. Once you do that, the suspension period starts to run. So if you delay the surrender of your license you’re only adding to the amount of time you’ll be without driving privileges.
As you wait for your suspension period to end, you’ll have to complete a few tasks for the state. This includes paying reinstatement fees and fulfilling any obligations ordered by the court, like attending treatment or safe driving courses. You must have proof that you have completed these tasks and proof of liability insurance before you can get your license back.
How Long Should It Take to Get My License Back?
How long you’ll be without driving privileges can depend on the circumstances of your case. You could face a suspension of:
12 months: This is a common punishment for someone convicted of their second DUI. Someone who had a high BAC DUI offense or a highest BAC DUI offense could have their license suspended for 12 months even if it’s only their first conviction.
18 months: A third high BAC DUI offense or a second highest BAC DUI offense is sure to result in a suspension period of at least 18 months.
For the record, a high BAC DUI offense requires a BAC of more than .10% but less than .16%. The highest BAC DUI charge requires a BAC of .16% or more.
Is There a Way to Get a License Back Earlier?
Being without driving privileges for a year or more can be an annoyance, to say the least. Fortunately, some drivers can get their license back early by asking for an OLL. An occupational limited license can be applied for 60 days into a suspension if you are a first-time offender. Someone who has an 18-month suspension can apply 12 months into their suspension if they have no more than one prior offense and they agree to use an ignition interlock device. An OLL only allows you to drive when absolutely necessary though, so keep that in mind.
Contact Our Law Firm
So if you are being charged with a DUI, you have to fight back with everything that you have. You don’t want to deal with a long license suspension or any of the other penalties you could face after a conviction. Contact Mudrick & Zucker to schedule a consultation and learn more about what our experienced defense attorneys can do for you.
