If you are convicted of a DUI, you are likely to lose your right to drive for an extended period of time. Getting your license back and regaining your driving privileges is the first thing that comes to your mind. For this, you need to know how exactly your licensed was taken away – whether it was revoked or suspended.

When you receive a notice from the court or relevant authority about your DUI incident and the fact that your license has been taken away, keep the document safe. The notice will provide all the information about your suspension such as the reason for your arrest or conviction, deadline date to appeal and people you can contact regarding the suspension. If you file an appeal of your charges and subsequent suspension and that appeal is unsuccessful, you will not be able to drive a vehicle for the length of the suspension. Many states will allow restricted driving because of work or other circumstances. You will need to check with your attorney to file for the right o restricted driving and understand the next steps required to get your license back as soon as possible.

License Reinstatement Process

Identifying a simple thing like whether your license is suspended or revoked can make all the difference. A license that is suspended is easy to reinstate compared to a revoked one. For a suspended license, simply pay the specified fees and provide proof of insurance at your local DMV. For a revoked license, following the below steps can restore the license:

• First, complete all paperwork and court requirements. The court may require you to attend classes such as a driving course or an alcohol awareness class
• Pay all fines and fees specified on your record
• Get proof of insurance and complete all paperwork pertaining to your insurer
• Attend a hearing. A  hearing is mandatory to get a license reinstated and reinstatement depends on how serious the charges are
• Pay any extra fees related to reinstatement. This fee is in addition to all the court fees, fines and classes that you have attended.

The exact process of getting a license back for just a DUI with no injuries or accidents also depends on the state you live in. Nevertheless, you will have to spend a lot of time at the DMV to initiate the process.

Why to Choose A Lawyer

Getting a driver’s license back after a DUI is a task you should hand over to a lawyer. You will want the help of a professional to get your lost freedom back as soon as possible. There may be decisions you need to make where only a professional can understand. The truth is, a DUI has the same consequences as any other serious crimes. As the convicted person, DUI lawyers can give you the legal protection you need so that you are shielded from any suing party or lawsuits.

Know that a suspended or revoked license can have a huge impact on your career, personal life and social well-being. When facing such charges you will want to get your license back as soon as possible to bring things back to normal. If you are filing  an appeal process without a professional representation, you may make mistakes that may be used against you later. By hiring a DUI lawyer or seeking the advice of one, you are helping to eliminate that risk.