If you are arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), you may lose your driver’s license. It may be suspended for a particular period.
So, when can this happen?
When you refuse to submit to a chemical test
Anyone driving in Florida automatically consents to chemical testing when a law enforcement officer has probable cause to believe they are driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Refusing to submit to a chemical test can be unlawful. Accordingly, it can lead to the loss of their license.
A first refusal can result in a license suspension of one year, and a second or subsequent refusal can lead to a suspension of 18 months.
When you fail a breathalyzer test
Any person over the age of 21 caught driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 or higher or any person under the age of 21 with a BAC of 0.02 or above can lose their driver’s license for six months in the first offense. Second or subsequent offenses can lead to a suspension of one year.
The suspension of the license of a driver under the age of 21 with a BAC level of 0.05 or above will remain in effect until they complete a substance abuse evaluation and course.
When does the suspension start?
A driver license suspension in Florida takes effect immediately after a DUI arrest – not after conviction. The law enforcement officer will issue you a temporary permit with which you can drive for 10 days from the date of the arrest.
For drivers under 21, the temporary permit will not be valid until 12 hours after it’s issued. It’s also valid for 10 days from the date of the arrest.
If you lose your driver license for a DUI-related reason, learn more about defending yourself to reinstate your driving privileges.
