There is not one answer to that question.  Below are the most common scenarios.  Notice that the “look back” period to determine how many DUI convictions a person has had is five years.  The five years is measured from the dates of the previous arrests for which convictions were obtained to the date of the current arrest for which a conviction is obtained.

First Offense DUI Alcohol (within 5 years)

Your driver’s license will be suspended for 120 days.  However, you may be eligible for a limited temporary or work permit.  You are eligible for reinstatement of your license after 120 days upon completion of DUI school and payment of $210.00 reinstatement fee.  The above only applies if you have a Georgia driver’s license.  Other states have their own rules, which could cause your suspension to be longer.

Second Offense Alcohol (within 5 years)

Your Driver’s license will be suspended for 18 months.  However, you may be eligible for a temporary permit after 12 months with the installation of an ignition interlock device.  You must also complete DUI school and a DHR 17 week Alcohol and Drug course and pay a reinstatement fee of $210.

DUI of Drugs

Your license will be suspended for 180 days and you are not eligible for a temporary permit.  Your license can be reinstated after 180 days upon completion of DUI school and payment of reinstatement fee of $210.00.  Suspensions run consecutively to other withdrawals already in place.

Note on Administrative Suspensions

If an administrative suspension is not requested by the arresting officer, the officer should issue a 180 day temporary driving permit or sticker.  However, if an administrative suspension is requested then your license will be suspended pending your court date, unless you make a timely appeal (within 10 days of notice).  If you have notice of a adminstrative suspension it is very important you speak to an attorney within 10 days of your arrest or sooner.

Posted on: 31 Jul, 2012          under: Uncategorized