Florida DUI Suspended Driver Hardship License 

Losing your ability to drive can drastically impact your ability to work or receive services you need (i.e., medical treatment, etc.). Where you are allowed to drive will depend on whether you apply for a work-purposes-only or business-purposes-only license.

Your driver’s license can be suspended due to a DUI in two ways. The initial one is known as an Administrative Suspension, which is carried out by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). This is the organization responsible for issuing driver’s licenses and has the power to revoke or suspend driving privileges for traffic violations or other illegal activities. In addition, since Driving Under the Influence is considered a criminal offense, the court may also enforce a Criminal Suspension.

Once you are arrested for a DUI, the DHSMV Administrative Suspension will commence. If your blood alcohol level (BAC) is .08 or higher or if you refuse to take a test, your license will be taken by the police, and you will be given a temporary driving permit for ten days. It is important to note that your license is not yet officially suspended. You have the right to request a DHSMV hearing to review your case. If you need assistance, the Rivas Law Firm’s Orlando DUI Attorneys are available. You can call 407-644-2466 or contact us online for a complimentary consultation.

DMV Hearing for a Hardship License 

Failure to request a hearing within ten days of being arrested will result in your suspension being finalized. This could lead to a loss of your driving privileges for a maximum of 18 months, depending on the situation. To prevent suspension or obtain a hardship license, enlisting a competent and assertive Driver’s License Suspension Lawyer who can represent you at a DHSMV Formal Review Hearing is recommended.

Your lawyer may be able to dismiss your administrative suspension, depending on your circumstances. This is distinct from any criminal suspension that a court may impose. Even if your license is suspended by the DMV, you may be eligible for a “Business or Employment Reinstatement” after a specific period. This special license, also known as a hardship license, is designed to allow you to continue driving (with certain restrictions) so that you do not experience a loss of income during the suspension period.

If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08 or higher, you can request a hardship license after 30 days. However, if you refuse to take a BAC test, you must wait 90 days before applying for a hardship license.

Moreover, it is essential to complete DUI school within 90 days after obtaining the hardship license. Failure to finish DUI school or any other required substance abuse program will result in the revocation of your hardship license until all requirements are met. Additionally, passing an examination, paying various fees, and providing evidence of insurance are necessary qualifications for eligibility.

Driver Hardship License for DUI Suspensions in Florida

If you can avoid a DHSMV Administrative Suspension or obtain a hardship license, you will still be faced with the repercussions of a DUI arrest in court. If found guilty of criminal DUI charges, a mandatory suspension will be imposed and the judge will take away your hardship license. It may be possible to obtain another hardship license, but that will likely be the least of your concerns. The most effective way to minimize the difficulties resulting from a DUI arrest is to consult with an experienced defense attorney. To schedule a case evaluation with the Orlando DUI Lawyers at the Rivas Law Firm, call 407-644-2466 or reach out to us online.