People accused of driving under the influence (DUI) offenses can anticipate facing certain standard penalties. The sentence that the courts impose must align with state statutes, which establish minimum and maximum penalties for a variety of different DUI circumstances. The potential consequences after a DUI conviction include probation, incarceration and fines.
Drivers also have to cover court costs after a DUI conviction and may lose their driving privileges temporarily. Suspending or revoking the license of a motorist accused of intoxication at the wheel is a reasonable and appropriate penalty. However, losing driving privileges can put people in very difficult positions. They may struggle to manage their household responsibilities, might worry about losing their jobs or may incur massive personal costs making use of alternative transportation systems.
The longer a driver’s license suspension lasts, the more challenging it may become for the motorist involved. How long do people typically lose their driving privileges for following a DUI conviction?
Numerous details influence penalties
There are different penalties possible in a DUI case depending on the prior record of the motorist and whether there are any aggravating factors that complicate the situation. Drivers could lose their licenses for months, years or the rest of their lives in some cases.
If a driver faces a first DUI charge and didn’t cause anyone else injuries, they could lose their driver’s license for between 180 days and a year. If the incident resulted in injury to others, then the suspension typically lasts at least three years.
After a second DUI conviction within five years of the first offense, a driver faces a five-year revocation. A third offense within 10 years of a second DUI conviction leads to a 10-year license revocation. Any driver convicted of a fourth DUI offense is at risk of permanent license revocation.
In some cases, those facing a lengthy suspension or revocation may be eligible for a hardship license reinstatement. Typically, these drivers must complete a portion of the suspension/revocation period before petitioning for a hardship reinstatement.
Escalating penalties are one of several reasons that make fighting even a first-time DUI charge a worthwhile investment for many. A motorist who successfully defends against DUI charges can preserve their driving privileges and avoid criminal records that could affect their lives for many years.