Driver's License Restoration in Orlando

How can I get back behind the wheel after a DUI conviction?

At Parks & Braxton, PA, we know DUI law. Our attorneys have successfully represented thousands of people on charges of driving under the influence, and have even been called upon to share our knowledge and skill by educating other lawyers on the subject of DUI defense. If you have lost your driver's license after a conviction for drinking and driving, do not hesitate to contact us to discuss the matter and take the first steps toward restoring your license with a minimum of delay. The first thing to know about seeking to regain your license is that driving on the roads and highways of Orlando is a privilege, not a right.

Hardship Driver's License Requirements in Orlando

For a first-time drunk driving conviction, you will be facing a license revocation lasting between 180 and 365 days. By completing a court-approved DUI school and any type of substance abuse treatment which you have been ordered to receive, you will be eligible to apply for a hardship license before the completion of your suspension. Such licenses are granted at DHSMV hearings when the petitioner can demonstrate that the suspension or revocation imposes a "serious hardship" and makes it difficult or impossible to support family members. The license will make it possible for you to drive to and from work. Even if you wait until the end of your revocation period, you will still have to enroll in the school and treatment before you can get your license back, and must complete the requirements within 90 days of reinstatement to avoid having the license again revoked.

If this is your second conviction but it has been at least five years since the original offense, you will have to serve the full 180-day to one-year revocation, whereas if it has been less than five years and you are subject to a five-year revocation, you may apply for a hardship license after one year. Stricter requirements apply to more serious offenses: for example, a conviction for DUI manslaughter is punishable by a permanent revocation, and you will only be able to apply for a hardship license after five years.

Liability Insurance After a DUI Conviction

Another requirement for reinstatement of your driving privileges, which applies whether you are seeking a restricted license or your full driver's license, is that you purchase a minimum of $100,000 in bodily injury liability insurance, as well as $300,000 in bodily injury coverage per accident and $50,000 in property damage liability.

Ignition Interlock Device for Orlando DUI Offenders

As a condition of reinstating your driver's license after a first DUI offense, the court may order you to install and use an ignition interlock device, a requirement which is mandatory for those with multiple DUI convictions. An IID requires the driver to provide a breath sample before starting the vehicle and at random intervals while driving, and will make it impossible to drive with a blood alcohol concentration above .05%. Many devices also have the function of honking the horn and flashing the lights to attract the attention of police officers for a failed test, in addition to the fact that a failed test will be reported to law enforcement. According to the DHSMV, the costs of the device include a $12 fee, $75 for installation, a $100 refundable deposit and a $72.50 monthly fee for calibration and monitoring. Meeting the requirements for reinstatement of your driver's license can be a challenge, but we can help you with the entire process so that you can get back behind the wheel and get your life back on track as quickly as possible.