After being convicted of driving under the influence, you will likely face a variety of penalties including fines, jail time, and license suspension. Driving is crucial for many in everyday life. Whether you need to commute to work, drive to meet friends, pick up your kids, or do any other task, having a valid license may be vital to the functioning of your day-to-day. Most people who have their driving privileges revoked are eager to get their license back, but unfortunately, there is no way to reinstate your license early after a DUI suspension. For representation during your case and skilled legal counsel, reach out to a Memphis DUI defense lawyer at Ballin, Ballin & Fishman, PC today.
How Long Will My License Be Suspended After a DUI in TN?
How long your suspension will last depends entirely on the details of your case and the severity of your offense. Some convictions will allow you to maintain a restricted license under certain circumstances. You may be allowed to drive for work, medical treatments, child care, or between certain hours.
In general, the license suspension for each type of offense will be:
- First offense DUI: 1 year with a potential restricted license
- Second offense DUI: 2 years with a potential restricted license
- Third offense DUI: 6 years with a potential restricted license
- Fourth offense DUI: 8 years with a potential restricted license
- DUI Vehicular Assault: 1 to 5 years with no potential restricted license
- DUI Vehicular Homicide: 3 to 10 years with no potential restricted license
The more serious the offense, the longer your license will be suspended and the less likely you are to be granted a restricted driver’s license.
Is it Possible to Get My License Back Early After a DUI Suspension?
No, it is never possible to get your license back early after a DUI suspension in Tennessee. You must allow the entirety of your suspension period to elapse before applying for reinstatement. If you apply before your suspension is over you will be rejected.
How Can I Get My License Reinstated?
Carefully following the requirements to have your license reinstated is crucial in ensuring you can get back on the road as soon as possible. Consider the following steps to getting your license back.
- Serve the entirety of your associated suspension period
- Provide court certification proving that all requirements from the court have been met including fines, restitution, community service, jail time, etc.
- Obtain SR-22 insurance
- Pay the $100 reinstatement fee
- Pay the $50 SR-22 fee
- Pay the $75 failure to surrender license fee (if you failed to surrender your license within the allotted time frame)
- Apply for reinstatement online, by mail, or at a Driver Services Reinstatement Center
Completing all required steps is crucial in ensuring you can have your license reinstated in a timely manner. For more information, reach out to a skilled attorney. Your lawyer can help you understand your rights and options and successfully apply to get your license back.
