Operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated (OWI), also called driving under the influence (DUI), can lead to serious legal consequences. One challenge that can impact many parts of your life is the loss of your driver’s license. After an arrest, it is essential to know how a license suspension could impact you.
Could an arrest lead to losing your license?
In Indiana, an drunk driving arrest automatically leads to what is known as an administrative suspension. This means that you may lose the ability to drive even before you go to trial. This is known as an administrative suspension. If a breath test show that you drove with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher, the Department of Motor Vehicles will suspend your license for at least 30 days.
If you refuse to take a breath test, the suspension period is one year. This is because Indiana’s “implied consent” law requires drivers to comply with testing.
How long could you lose your license after a conviction?
After an Indiana drunk driving conviction, the court will impose additional penalties. These often include a further suspension of your driving privileges:
- First offense: Typically results in a suspension ranging from 90 days to two years.
- Second offense: Can lead to a suspension of 180 days to two years.
- Third or subsequent offenses: May result in a longer suspension, sometimes up to ten years.
Is it possible to get back on the road?
While losing your driver’s license can be challenging, Indiana offers the possibility of obtaining a hardship license. This type of license allows you to drive under specific conditions, such as commuting to work or attending court-ordered programs. To qualify, you must petition the court and meet certain requirements.
Know your options and protect your rights
A drunk driving charge in Indiana can result in losing your driver’s license, even if the arrest does not lead to a conviction. However, understanding these challenges and seeking legal guidance can help you limit the challenges a license suspension can cause.