If you’ve been charged with driving under the influence, that charge can disrupt your life and leave you feeling like you’re not sure how to get back to normal. Though you’ll likely have to appear in court, you can also have your license revoked, disrupting your day and making it harder to get to work, pick up the kids, see friends, and live your life. As any South Carolina DUI defense attorney can tell you, license revocations aren’t typically permanent. Here’s what you can do to help you get your license back.
Understand How Long Your License May Be Revoked
As we mentioned, license revocations are typically not permanent. The court revokes licenses based on the severity of your case and the number of prior offenses you have on your record. However, most drivers have their licenses revoked for between six months and three years. The more severe your case is, and the more complex the charges against you are, the more likely it is that your license will be revoked for a longer time. Here’s the breakdown of common timelines:
- First offenses: 6-month automatic suspension
- Second offense: 1-year automatic suspension
- Third offense: 2-year automatic suspension; 4-year automatic suspension if the third offense occurs within 4 years of your first
- Fourth and subsequent offenses: Permanent revocation of license
The suspension typically starts from the date of your conviction.
How to Get Your License Back
Though license suspensions are common for DUI convictions, you may not receive your normal driver’s license immediately after the suspension period is up. Here’s what you’ll need to do to get your license back.
Complete the Alcohol and Drug Safety Act Program (ADSAP)
Under South Carolina law, all drivers convicted of a DUI must complete the ADSAP prior to having their license reinstated. This program aims to reduce the risk of future convictions, injuries, and deaths resulting from DUIs in the state. It’s a substance abuse program that may help some drivers get the treatments they need to make smarter choices regarding alcohol use and may help those suffering from addiction develop skills to live healthier and safer lives.
Failure to enroll and complete this program could result in increased fines and will prevent you from getting your license reinstated.
Pay the Reinstatement Free
The state requires all drivers convicted of DUI who want to get their license back to pay a reinstatement fee. Currently, that fee is $100 and is payable to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles. If you can’t afford that fee, speak with the DMV. They may help you set up a payment plan to break that fee into smaller installments. Keep in mind that you won’t receive your license until the reinstatement fee is paid in full.
Get Your SR-22 Insurance Set Up
You may need to secure an SR-22 insurance policy before you can get your license and your car insurance back, so you can drive legally. These policies are designed to provide additional coverage to higher-risk drivers convicted of DUI. Think of it as an added liability policy. Speak with your insurance provider to see if they offer coverage. If they don’t, you may need to work with another insurance company.
Install Your Interlock Device
You may be required to have an ignition interlock device installed on every vehicle you use regularly. These devices must be installed by a professional. The court may be able to provide you with a list of reputable installers in your area. If they can’t, your South Carolina DUI defense attorney may be able to help.
Getting Your License Back Is Possible
Though the process of getting your license back is time-consuming, it is possible, and once you have your license reinstated, your life can get back to normal. But you still need an experienced South Carolina DUI defense attorney to represent your case and to ensure you’re being treated fairly in court. Contact Truslow & Truslow today to schedule a consultation.