Can I Get My License Back Early After a DUI in Michigan?

In most of the United States, including Michigan, driving is an important and often necessary part of life. Whether you commute to work, need a way to get to school, or require wheels for fun activities, having a license and driving is often crucial to everyday life. After a drunk driving conviction, individuals generally lose their driving privileges for a few months or even years. If you lost your license due to a DUI you may wonder what the chances of getting it back early may be. Continue reading and work with a Marquette DUI lawyer for more information during your case.

How Long Will My License Be Suspended For?

Because driving while intoxicated is so dangerous, the penalties associated with a DUI conviction can be severe. The length of your license suspension will depend on the details of your case and situation. You will likely lose your license for longer if aggravating circumstances were present like a high BAC, prior offenses, driving with a minor in the car, etc.

A first-offense drug or alcohol DUI conviction will result in a 6-month license suspension. During this time, the first 30 days you will be unable to drive at all. Depending on the details of your case you may be permitted to drive with a restricted license for the remaining 150 days.

An offense where you have an extraordinarily high BAC, as in .17 or greater, will require a suspension period of 1 year. At least 45 days of the suspension must be served before you can request a restricted license.

Michigan takes DUI offenses seriously and the license suspension guidelines mirror the severity of the crime.

Can I Get My License Back Early After a DUI Suspension?

The answer to this question is both yes and no. When you are convicted of drunk driving in Michigan, you will receive a license suspension period, for example, 6 months after a first offense with a BAC of .08 or greater. You can get your license back earlier than the entirety of the period, but you are required to serve a portion of the suspension.

You cannot get your license back before the mandatory suspension period, in this case, 30 days, has been served. Regardless of whether you have paid your fines, installed an ignition interlock device, provided evidence of your sobriety, etc. you must serve the mandatory minimum suspension period.

Do I Need a DUI Lawyer?

If you are facing DUI charges you must obtain help from a skilled lawyer. It is crucial that you have experienced representation during your case. While you could be issued a year suspension, you have the chance to get your license back early given that you meet all requirements. Your attorney will understand your rights and options after your conviction. Reach out to a lawyer today for more information.