When experience matters, don’t leave your future to chance.

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Photo of Professionals at JMG, PLLC

When experience matters, don’t leave your future to chance.

How long will you lose your license over a DUI?

On Behalf of | Nov 3, 2022 | DUI |

When a Tennessee police officer arrests you for driving under the influence (DUI) infraction, you may face numerous significant penalties. Depending on the circumstances leading to your arrest and your driving record, you could face jail time, large fines and other criminal consequences. 

The state of Tennessee will also very likely suspend your driver’s license. Losing your license can be a major issue, especially because you need to keep your job to pay all of those court costs and fines. How long will you (potentially) lose your license if you plead guilty to a DUI charge? 

Even first offenses can cost your license

A judge presiding over an impaired driving case has the authority to revoke or suspend your license, even if this is your first offense and there were no crashes or other aggravating factors. A first-time DUI offense can lead to a one-year license revocation

A second DUI could lead to the loss of driving privileges for up to two years. After a third offense, the state will revoke your license for six years. Those accused of fourth or subsequent DUI charges will potentially lose their license for up to eight years. 

In some scenarios, a restricted license may be available for some or all of the license revocation period. Typically, those with a restricted license will need to install ignition interlock devices (IIDs) in their vehicles and will also need to pay for those devices. Plus, when a driver does get their license back after a suspension, what they pay for insurance will likely increase. 

Learning the consequences that apply to DUI charges can help those facing criminal allegations decide the next step to take.