How Soon Can You Get Your Driving Privileges Reinstated? What Limitations Will You Have on Driving?
One of the most challenging consequences of getting a DUI in New Jersey is the impact it will have on your ability to drive. When you can’t get behind the wheel, it can be difficult or expensive to get to work or to do the other things you need to do every day. How soon can you start driving again in New Jersey after a DUI? What kinds of limitations will be imposed on your right to drive?
The Process for Getting Your Driving Privileges Reinstated in New Jersey
If it’s your first conviction for driving while impaired, there’s some good news. While your license will automatically be suspended, it will only be until you have an ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle. Unlike other states that issue limited driving licenses to allow you to go back and forth to essential places, New Jersey will only lift your suspension when an ignition interlock device (“IID”) is installed. Furthermore, only first-time offenders can get their suspensions lifted by installing an IID. If your blood alcohol content (BAC) was less than .10%, you will be required to have the ignition interlock for three months. If it was .10% or higher, you must have the device installed for at least seven months.
Repeat DUI offenders have a far more difficult time getting driving privileges reinstated in New Jersey. For a second offense, you will lose your driver’s license for at least one year and for up to two years after the forfeiture of your license. A third conviction will result in an 8-year suspension of your driving privileges and the DUI offender must install an IID between two and four years after the period of forfeiture of your license. If you’re a repeat offender, the only way to get your driver’s license back is to complete the court-ordered suspension period.
Contact Attorney Howard N. Sobel
At the office of Howard N. Sobel, we aggressively advocate for people in New Jersey who have been charged with drinking and driving or driving while impaired. Contact our office online or call us at 856-424-6400 to set up a free initial consultation. Evening and weekend appointments can be arranged upon request. We accept all major credit cards.
Named a New Jersey Super Lawyer Every Year 2010—2024
