how long after dui arrest before you lose license in ohio
It can be an absolutely devastating experience when you are arrested for a DUI. Losing your license in the aftermath is the last thing you want. However, understanding the possible outcomes in Ohio may help you take the right steps to protect yourself. How long after a DUI arrest until you lose your license in Ohio?
The immediate answer is 30 days, but the total time period really depends on your particular circumstances. Ohio has a drivers license suspension period that starts right away when you are arrested for a DUI. Afterwards, you have 10 days to file a motion to contest the suspension or to request an administrative hearing. That hearing will provide an opportunity to show evidence that the suspension should be reduced or erased.
In the event that the license suspension is upheld after the hearing has taken place, the suspension period will begin 7 days after the individual receives notice of that decision. Most people with a DUI in Ohio can expect to lose their license for one year, however, the circumstances of the offense could potentially lead to a suspension for up to three years. If a conviction occurs, the duration of the suspension is based on the specific requirements of the sentence handed down.
The good news is that getting your license back doesn’t necessarily have to be a long process. After the suspension period is complete, you’ll need to certify that you’ve satisfied the suspension-related conditions and reinstatement fees and complete a driver’s license reinstatement form. You likely will also be required to pass a vision and written test in order to regain your license. Quite simply, you just have to wait for the suspension period to end, after which, you can apply for a license reinstatement.
In addition, you may consider taking a drug and alcohol education program, or participating in Alcoholics Anonymous or in a related program. Doing so may help reduce the suspensions time beyond what may be expected based on Ohio law. Furthermore, if you remain sober for 6 consecutive months after a DUI conviction, Ohio allows you to petition the court for reinstatement of your drivers license prior to the end of the full suspension period provided all other reinstatement requirements are met.
Nevertheless, it is a mistake to think that its alright to get behind the wheel after a DUI arrest. Ohio has a Zero Tolerance Law, meaning any test that shows any alcohol in your breath, saliva or urine even a test that shows a blood alcohol content (BAC) of less than .08 can cause your license to be suspended. Therefore, anyone facing DUI charges should consult with an Ohio DUI lawyer who can explain the laws and guidelines.
If the license suspension is for a short period and the offense was particularly minor, there is a chance an Ohio DUI attorney may be able to argue the issue at trial and avoid a license suspension. Of course, if the individual does not contest the suspension or is convicted, the license will be lost for the typical one year period although the suspension could be for two or three years if the offense was particularly serious.
When it comes to applying to regain your license, Ohio requires one to pay a reinstatement fee. The amount of this fee depends on the number of suspensions and the length of the suspensions. It may also depend on the completion of any required alcohol treatment or counseling sessions. Additionally, individuals arrested for multiple DUIs may face additional license suspension periods and may be required to furnish additional proof of financial responsibility or have an ignition interlock device installed on their vehicle.
It is also important to remember that, even after the license reinstatement process has been completed, a DUI will often remain on ones Ohio driving record for up to 6 years. This means that insurance companies may assess higher premiums. As such, the consequences of a DUI extend beyond the license suspension.
It is also important to note that those under 21 years of age face extremely tough DUI penalties in Ohio. If you are under 21 and arrested for DUI, whether or not you consent to a chemical test, you will be looking at a license suspension for a minimum of one year. Your license might also be suspended for longer if the DUI results in multiple convictions, or if tests show that your BAC was over a .17.
For individuals 21 and over, even if the prosecution is unable to prove an individual was DUI, refusal to take a test or a showing that BAC was over .08 can lead to a suspended license for a minimum of one year. Testing refusal results in a suspension for two times as long as a blood alcohol test that shows a BAC level over .08 would result in, and the license suspension could be even longer depending on the circumstances.
In Ohio, it is illegal to drive with a suspended license. That means that if a person with a suspended license is caught driving, they could be subject to more serious consequences such as a prison sentence and additional license suspension. It is also illegal in the state of Ohio to drive a vehicle without having the proper insurance coverage. The consequences can be a misdemeanor conviction and further license suspension. It is advisable to always double check your auto insurance, familiarize yourself with the Ohio DUI laws, and be aware of the ramifications of driving with a suspended license or without auto insurance.
When it comes to being arrested for DUI in Ohio, understanding the laws and the consequences of your actions is essential. Every year, the majority of individuals arrested for DUI lose their license for at least one year, or possibly longer. Fines and fees can be expensive and not having a license to drive can be a huge inconvenience. To lessen the consequences, it is essential to understand Ohios DUI laws, follow the steps necessary to contest a license suspension and reach out for legal help when needed.
It is important to remember that multiple offenses in Ohio will result in more penalties, such as longer suspensions and higher fines. For this reason, it is beneficial for those convicted of DUI after the arrest to consider treatment and recovery options. Gaining insight on the effects of drinking and the dangers of driving under the influence can help to reduce the chances of being convicted again in the future.
It is also crucial to realize that Ohio requires individuals to install an ignition interlock device as a condition for license reinstatement if the driver has two or more DUI convictions on their record. This device requires a driver to pass a breathalyzer test before being allowed to start their vehicle, and failing this test will result in an immediate license suspension. Refusal to comply with the ignition interlock device will also result in a license suspension.
When facing DUI charges in Ohio, it is important to explore all of the available options to obtain the best possible results. Whether the suspension is based on a refusal to take a DUI test or an actual conviction, there may be options that can reduce the length of the license suspension or in some cases even prevent any license suspension at all.
Overall, a DUI in Ohio can result in a license suspension, although the length of the suspension is dependent upon several factors. An Ohio DUI lawyer can provide invaluable legal counsel on possible strategies to contest the suspension or to work for a reduction in penalties. With the help of an experienced attorney, it may be possible to minimize or even avoid the typical license suspensions in Ohio.
