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Is Your License Suspended Immediately After a DUI in Florida? 

The Law Offices of Richard L. Cooper, P.A.  July 19, 2024

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Florida. The immediate aftermath of a DUI charge can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding the status of your driver's license. If you're wondering if your license will be suspended immediately after a DUI in Florida, we are here to answer that.

We will also explore the administrative license suspension process, how to challenge the suspension, the possibility of obtaining a hardship license, and the consequences of not addressing the suspension. 

Is Your License Suspended Immediately After a DUI?

The short answer is yes, your driver's license is typically suspended immediately after a DUI arrest in Florida. When you are arrested for a DUI, the officer will confiscate your license and issue a temporary permit that allows you to drive for 10 days. During this period, it's crucial to act quickly to protect your driving privileges. 

The immediate suspension serves as a wake-up call to the seriousness of the DUI charge. It's a preemptive measure to ensure that individuals who are a potential danger to themselves and others are kept off the road. However, this doesn't mean all hope is lost. There are steps you can take to address and potentially challenge the suspension. 

Administrative License Suspension

In Florida, an administrative license suspension occurs independently of any criminal proceedings. This means that even if you are not convicted of the DUI charge, your license can still be suspended based on administrative rules. This type of suspension is administered by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV)

When your license is administratively suspended, it usually lasts for six months for a first offense and up to one year for subsequent offenses. This suspension is based on either failing a breathalyzer test or refusing to take one. It's important to note that refusing a breathalyzer test can lead to a longer suspension period. 

Understanding the administrative license suspension process is essential for taking the appropriate steps to regain your driving privileges. The key is to act quickly and seek legal advice to explore your options. 

Challenging the Suspension

You have the right to challenge an administrative license suspension. To do so, you must request a formal review hearing within 10 days of your arrest. This hearing is your opportunity to contest the suspension and present evidence in your favor. 

At the formal review hearing, several factors will be considered, such as whether the officer had probable cause to stop you and whether proper procedures were followed during your arrest and breathalyzer test. Having a skilled attorney by your side can significantly increase your chances of a favorable outcome. 

If you win the formal review hearing, your license will be reinstated. However, if you lose, the suspension will remain in effect. Regardless of the outcome, challenging the suspension shows the court that you are taking the matter seriously and are proactive in addressing the situation. 

What Is a Hardship License?

If your license remains suspended after the formal review hearing, you may be eligible for a hardship license. A hardship license allows you to drive for essential purposes, such as work, school, or medical appointments. 

To apply for a hardship license, you must complete a DUI school and provide proof of enrollment. You will then attend a hearing where you must demonstrate your need for limited driving privileges. The hearing officer will evaluate your case and decide whether to grant the hardship license. 

Obtaining a hardship license can be a lifeline, allowing you to maintain your daily responsibilities while managing the consequences of your DUI charge. It's a step toward regaining some normalcy in your life. 

Consequences of Not Addressing the Suspension

Ignoring a license suspension can have severe consequences. If you continue to drive with a suspended license, you risk additional fines, extended suspension periods, and even jail time. It's crucial to take the suspension seriously and explore all available options to address it. 

Failing to address the suspension also impacts your criminal case. Courts view proactive behavior favorably, and taking steps to challenge or mitigate the suspension can positively influence the outcome of your DUI case. 

By not addressing the suspension, you are also compromising your ability to fulfill daily obligations. It's essential to take immediate action to protect your driving privileges and minimize the long-term impact on your life. 

You Have Rights. Use Them.

A DUI charge in Florida results in the immediate suspension of your driver's license. However, there are steps you can take to challenge the suspension and potentially regain your driving privileges. From understanding the administrative license suspension process to applying for a hardship license, it's crucial to act quickly and seek legal advice. 

At The Law Offices of Richard L. Cooper, P.A., our lawyer is committed to helping you navigate this challenging time. If you have questions about your DUI charge or need assistance with your license suspension, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Our firm is here to support you and guide you through the legal process. 

Take control of your situation and explore your options today. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you address your DUI charge and license suspension.