When Can a Driver's License Be Suspended?
Driving a motor vehicle is a privilege, not a right. In the state of North Carolina, several crimes carry the penalty of a driver’s license suspension or revocation, such as a DUI (driving under the influence) or DWI (driving while intoxicated). Here’s what you need to know about the most common reasons the state removes driving privileges and what it requires to reinstate licenses.
What Attorneys Think You Should Know About Driver’s License Suspensions
Reasons for Suspension or Revocation
Having convictions for DWIs result in revocation of driver's licenses for at least one year. Refusing to submit to a chemical blood or breath test results in a license revocation immediately and an additional revocation by the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) for a year or more.
A conviction for driving while your license is revoked after a DUI or DWI results in an additional one-year suspension or revocation for a first offense and two years for a second offense. Speeding convictions for driving more than 15 miles an hour over the speed limit or faster than 80 miles per hour will lead to a 30-day suspension of your license. Other reasons for suspensions include failure to appear in court and failure to pay fines, which lead to indefinite suspensions.
How to Get Your License Reinstated
After fulfilling the suspension terms, you can apply for a license at an NCDMV driver license office. Depending on the reason for suspension, you may have to show proof of insurance to complete the reinstatement process. To restore your license after a DWI, you must give the NCDMV a certificate of completion for a DWI substance use assessment that has been approved by N.C. Department of Health and Human Services if you are subject to G.S. 20-17.6.
If your license has been suspended, or if you’re concerned that a recent DUI conviction may affect your license, contact the Law Office of H.A. (Alec) Carpenter IV in Greensboro, NC. This experienced criminal law attorney has provided professional counsel and around-the-clock assistance to residents throughout Guilford County since starting his practice in 1997. His effective legal approach will help you get the best outcome for your situation, whether you’re facing a DUI or other offense. Call (336) 333-5255 today to schedule a free attorney consultation or learn more about his other practice areas online.
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