If you operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08%, you will be charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI). In New York, this is a serious offense that carries harsh penalties including fines, potential jail time, and the loss of your driving privileges. If your license has been suspended, you likely are eager to get back behind the wheel as soon as possible. Having your driving privileges revoked can negatively impact various aspects of your life. As such, you may be wondering if it’s possible to get their driver’s license back early. Please continue reading to learn if this is an option in New York and why connecting with a knowledgeable Garden City, NY DWI/DUI Attorney is in your best interest.
How Long Will My License Be Suspended After a DWI in New York?
The amount of time you will lose your driving privileges after a DWI conviction depends on various factors associated with your case. If there are any aggravating factors such as prior DWI convictions it can impact how long your license will be suspended. If this is your first DWI offense your driving privileges will be suspended for six months. If you violate New York’s Zero Tolerance Law by refusing to submit to a chemical test, you could have your license revoked for at least one year.
The law imposes harsher penalties for repeat offenders. That said if this is your second DWI offense your driver’s license will be suspended for at least one year. It’s important to note that if you refuse to submit to chemical testing for a second time within five years, you will face an 18-month license suspension. Additionally, if you have a commercial license, you face the potential of a permanently revoked license. If you have been charged with a third DWI offense, you will have your driver’s license revoked for at least one year, with the possibility of permanent revocation.
Can I Get My License Back Early?
As you can see, the consequences of a DWI can devastate both your life and livelihood as your driving privileges could be stripped away. In New York, you may be eligible for a conditional license. This allows motorists to drive under certain circumstances when their license has been suspended or revoked after a DUI. Drivers must attend an Imparied Driving Program (IDP). Failure to complete the program requirements or non-compliance with the conditions of this temporary license will result in forfeiture of your driving privileges. The original suspension or revocation period will be re-imposed.
To have your driving privileges reinstated, you must meet all the conditions, such as paying any outstanding fines before you can get your driver’s license back. Generally, you will receive a Noice of Restoration from the DMV which will outline the steps you must take to settle your restoration.
At KCS Law, we are prepared to fight to reach the best possible outcome for your case. Contact our firm today to learn how we can help guide you through this difficult time.
