How Long is Your License Suspended After a DUI Ohio?

When it comes to a DUI license suspension in Ohio, a big question at the forefront of your mind might be how long the license suspension will last. With more than 20 ways for a variety of entities in the state of Ohio to suspend a driver’s license, including if a driver receives a DUI, we know that drivers are keen to understand how quickly they can get back to driving in their everyday life.

Below, we look at the length of time you might expect to have your license suspended and how a traffic attorney in Columbus, OH can help you contest the suspension.

How Long is Your License Suspended After a DUI in Ohio?

In general, license suspensions in Ohio can last from a minimum of 6 months to a year. And there is the potential for that amount of time to extend even longer depending on the kind of license suspension you are facing.

For DUI-related license suspensions, the length of time will differ based on individual factors tied to your DUI. For example, if your license is suspended in relation to your first DUI/OVI conviction, the suspension time will be determined by the court. To reinstate your license, you will have to pay a reinstatement fee and provide “proof of insurance that covers through the length of the suspension.”

If you are looking at a second DUI/OVI conviction, there are guidelines in place for a judge to impose a license suspension that can last from 12 months to 7 years.

Once a driver starts to see multiple DUI convictions, license suspension time can increase alongside other penalties including special plates, mandatory jail time, an interlock device on your vehicle, complete loss of your vehicle without compensation, possible fines, and drug or alcohol monitoring.

One important thing to take note of is the following from Section 4511.19 of the Ohio Revised Code:

“The court may grant limited driving privileges relative to the suspension under sections 4510.021 and 4510.13 of the Revised Code. The court may grant unlimited driving privileges with an ignition interlock device relative to the suspension and may reduce the period of suspension as authorized under section 4510.022 of the Revised Code.”

This lays out that certain types of driving can be permitted during the period of your suspension if permitted by law.  These driving privileges often limit where you can go and at what time.  Typical privileges include work, school, daycare, and medical appointments.  

No matter how long your license is suspended in relation to a DUI conviction, your driving rights will be impacted.  This is especially true for those who drive for a living and need a commercial driver’s license to do so. Unfortunately, privileges are not authorized to be granted while under suspension for DUI/OVI.

For a complete list of Ohio BMV license types and fees, see the official BMV page here.

Appealing a Suspension Placed on Your Driver’s License

Once your license is suspended, you will want to connect with the Maher Law Firm as soon as possible to discuss your options in appealing the suspension. Since most license suspensions are typically handled by the court, it can be especially important for a driver facing a license suspension to work with an experienced lawyer.

The Ohio BMV has its own rules that a traffic attorney in Columbus, OH will understand.

Speak With a Traffic Attorney in Columbus, OH About Your License Suspension

If you are facing a DUI suspension or any other license suspension in Ohio, it’s important that you take immediate action. Appealing a DUI license suspension may be a multi-step process, but the ultimate goal is to keep you on the road so you can continue with your usual activities like going to work and school.

If you need assistance appealing or avoiding a driver’s license suspension, reach out to Colin Maher of The Maher Law Firm today. He takes a realistic approach to help clients through various issues and offers free phone consultations.

Call him at 614-205-2208 or reach out through the contact form today.