city
(937) 872-4197
Available 24/7 & Obligation-Free
FREE Case Analysis

How to Handle a DMV License Suspension Resulting from a DUI

Updated: November 23, 2023
Nicholas Gounaris
By Nicholas Gounaris
Lawyer

Nicholas G. Gounaris is a skilled trial lawyer and founding partner of Gounaris Abboud law firm. He provides clients of the firm with competent legal representation and focuses his law practice in the areas of DUI Defense, Criminal Defense, Family Law Issues, Federal Criminal Law and Personal Injury cases.

One of the most common reasons for law enforcement to suspend your license is because you’ve been convicted of drunk driving. License suspensions can also occur if you refuse to take a breathalyzer test or if you accumulate too many points on your driving record.

There is no question about it – a suspended license can make life difficult and many aspects become nearly impossible. How are you supposed to get to work? Who will take your kids to school? Even grocery shopping can suddenly seem daunting. However, before you panic, gain some awareness about what you’re up against and how to handle the next few months or years.

Inform Yourself of the Details of Your Suspension

If this is your first DUI offense, your license can be suspended from six months to three years. A second offense can extend to up to five years, with a third offense lasting as many as 10 years. Your license can also be suspended for at least one year if you refuse a chemical test.

When you become aware of the suspension, check in with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles regarding a restricted license or a driving permit. You may be given limited abilities to drive if you have work, school, or court-ordered responsibilities. Ohio law does allow certain individuals to obtain a restricted license for these specific purposes.

Most importantly, do not drive without a permit allowing you to do so. If an officer catches you driving with a suspended license, it can only make an already challenging situation worse. Stay off the roads unless you have permission to drive.

Getting Through Life Without a Car

While it may seem impossible to survive without being able to drive, keep in mind that you do have other alternatives. Consider utilizing public transportation or carpooling with family members or friends. If your job or school is close enough, you may even be able to walk.

In an emergency, it be worthwhile to use a ride-sharing app, such as Lyft or Uber. These can get expensive, so you should always pursue other options if at all possible.

Without legal representation, it can be difficult to navigate the details of your license suspension. For personal assistance, schedule a free consultation with one of our Dayton DUI attorneys. We look forward to helping you in any way that we can.

Available 24/7 & Obligation-Free