An Indiana OWI can put your driver’s license at risk before your criminal case is resolved. Losing your driving privileges can disrupt your job, school, family responsibilities, and daily life.
If a police officer believes you are driving under the influence of alcohol, they will pull you over and may ask you to take a chemical test. Under Indiana’s implied consent law, refusing that test puts your license at risk of suspension.
Since a driver’s license suspension can make it difficult for you to get to work, school, the store, and other places you need to go on a regular basis, it is in your best interest to consult an experienced Indiana DUI lawyer at Custom Law.
How Long Will My Driver’s License Be Suspended?
If you fail a chemical test, the Indiana BMV may suspend your driving privileges for up to 180 days through its own process. A first refusal of the chemical test suspends your license for a full year (IC 9-30-6-9). A refusal with a prior OWI conviction on your record can mean a two-year suspension. Refusal-based suspensions are not eligible for specialized driving privileges.
If you’re eligible, a court may grant specialized driving privileges that allow you to drive under specified conditions, for example, commuting to a job in Carmel or handling school drop-off in Fishers.
Recurring DUI convictions lead to longer license suspensions as well. A second or later OWI conviction can extend your suspension well beyond the first-offense range, and Indiana’s habitual traffic violator law can revoke your license entirely after multiple offenses within a set number of years.
When Will My Driver’s License Be Taken?
A police officer may take your physical license from you at arrest, but that is not the same thing as having your driving privileges suspended. You’ll be able to obtain a duplicate license from the Indiana BMV, so you have an ID to carry around. Your driving privileges may be suspended before your criminal case is resolved, depending on the circumstances of your case.
Will I Be Able To Drive Once My Suspension Period Is Up?
You will be able to resume driving once your suspension period comes to an end. However, you can’t simply get in your car after your suspension is up and start cruising around town.
You may also have to satisfy BMV reinstatement requirements and pay any reinstatement fees that apply to your suspension. The exact requirements and fees depend on your driving record and the type of suspension.
Why Consult An Indiana DUI Lawyer?
If your driver’s license has been suspended after a DUI conviction, there may be options available to you. By working with an Indiana criminal defense attorney, you may be able to restore some or even all of your driving privileges. This can make your life a lot easier, especially if you depend on driving every day to get to where you need to go and live your life.
In addition, if you have a job or are applying for a job that requires driving, a driver’s license suspension may make it impossible for you to work or obtain work, and should be placed in the hands of an experienced lawyer right away.
Protect Your Driving Privileges
Custom Law has represented many people who have received a driver’s license suspension due to a DUI. Our attorneys practice in Hamilton County and across Indiana, based out of our Noblesville office. Our Indiana DUI lawyer will thoroughly investigate your situation and explain what options may be available to you. Call us today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana DUI/OWI License Suspensions
1. Will my Indiana driver’s license be suspended after an OWI?
Your driving privileges may be suspended after an OWI, depending on the circumstances. A failed chemical test and a refusal can trigger separate BMV suspension processes.
2. How long is an Indiana license suspended for refusing a chemical test?
A first refusal can result in a one-year suspension. If you have a prior OWI conviction, the suspension can be two years.
3. Can I drive while my Indiana driver’s license is suspended?
You generally cannot drive during a suspension unless you have legal authorization to do so. In some circumstances, you may be eligible for specialized driving privileges.
4. What happens when my Indiana OWI license suspension ends?
You may need to complete BMV reinstatement requirements before you can legally drive again. The requirements depend on your driving record and the type of suspension.
5. Can I get specialized driving privileges after an Indiana OWI?
Depending on the circumstances of your suspension, you may be eligible to petition for specialized driving privileges. These privileges can allow driving under specific conditions set by the court.