Losing your license after a DUI arrest can feel like a nightmare. For many Tennessee drivers, the immediate suspension of driving privileges is one of the toughest consequences to deal with. Trying to get to work or manage your daily routine without a license creates major disruptions.
In this article, we’ll break down how license suspension works after a DUI and what you can do to get back on the road legally.
There are Two Types of License Suspensions After a DUI
After a DUI, your license can be suspended through both an administrative process and as part of criminal court sentencing. Understanding the difference is key:
- Administrative suspension starts quickly after arrest. It’s a civil action against your license only.
- Criminal suspension happens after a DUI conviction. It’s part of the court-ordered sentence.
So, administrative suspension happens first, and criminal suspension follows if convicted. Let’s look at typical timelines for each process.
Administrative Suspension Timeline
Administrative license suspension will usually begin 30 days from the date of your DUI arrest. Here’s how it works:
- Your license is confiscated immediately when arrested.
- The 30 day countdown starts on the arrest date.
- You can challenge the suspension, but it still takes effect after 30 days unless you win a hearing.
So, even if you fight the administrative suspension, your license is still taken away immediately after arrest.
Criminal Suspension Timeline
Criminal license suspension only happens if you’re convicted of DUI in court. Factors impacting the timeline include:
- How quickly your case goes to trial, which varies case by case.
- If you plead guilty, suspension starts at sentencing.
- If found guilty at trial, the suspension goes into effect shortly after conviction.
So, the criminal suspension begins only after the court process concludes. But administrative suspension starts much sooner.
Consequences of Driving with a Suspended License
Driving when your license is suspended comes with serious penalties:
- It’s a misdemeanor criminal offense, punishable by fines of up to $1000 and up to 6 months in jail.
- Insurance rates increase dramatically. Some drivers pay 200-300% more.
- Each subsequent offense can extend your suspension period.
The risks and consequences of driving illegally make finding alternate transportation essential.
Getting a Restricted License
If your license is suspended for a DUI, you may be eligible for a restricted license in Tennessee. This allows you to drive under limited circumstances, such as:
- Travel to and from work
- Attending school
- Getting to treatment programs
- Transporting children or family members to appointments
- Going to court-ordered probation meetings
To qualify for a restricted license, you’ll need to have an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle. This device prevents your car from starting if alcohol is detected on your breath.
An experienced DUI defense attorney can guide you through the process of applying for a restricted license. They can also represent you at the required hearing for getting a restricted license reinstated.
Reinstating Your Full Driving Privileges
Once your suspension period ends, you’ll need to go through the proper steps to reinstate your full license. This includes:
- Paying all reinstatement fees and fines
- Providing proof of valid auto insurance
- Completing DUI education classes
- Passing any required tests
- Maintaining your ignition interlock device, if required
For repeat DUIs, the process can be more extensive. The length of time you’ll need an ignition interlock device or SR-22 insurance will be longer.
Consult with a Tennessee DUI defense lawyer to ensure you complete all the proper steps to regain your driving privileges after a suspension. They can walk you through the requirements.
Act Quickly to Protect Your License
The best way to limit the damage of a DUI is to be proactive in protecting your license. Here are some key steps:
- Hire an attorney immediately to help you navigate administrative and court proceedings related to your license.
- Act fast to request an administrative hearing to contest your suspension and keep driving at least temporarily.
- Have your lawyer seek a restricted license if your suspension can’t be avoided completely.
- Create a plan for reinstatement at the end of your suspension so you can get back on the road.
Don’t let a DUI arrest derail your life. With proper legal guidance, you can get back to driving safely and legally.
Contact a Chattanooga DUI Lawyer Today
The suspension process starts immediately after a DUI arrest. Having an experienced lawyer guide you through administrative and criminal proceedings is critical. Take steps to get qualified legal advice right away if facing drunk driving charges.
To discuss your case in a free consultation, contact the skilled DUI and criminal defense attorneys at the Law Office of Sam Byrd in Chattanooga. Call OR visit their website at https://chatt-law.com today. With compassionate counsel and strategic advocacy, they can help you move forward.
