What Happens to Your Driver’s License After a DUI Arrest in Utah?
What Happens to Your Driver’s License After a DUI Arrest in Utah?
A DUI arrest in Utah can create an immediate concern beyond the criminal charge: What happens to your driver’s license?
Losing the ability to drive can affect your job, family responsibilities, appointments, and everyday life. And you may need to address your driving privileges before your criminal DUI case is resolved.
Here’s what Utah drivers should know after a DUI arrest.
A DUI Arrest Can Trigger a Separate License Process
One of the most important things to understand is that a DUI arrest can involve two different proceedings.
The criminal case takes place in court.
The administrative case involving your driving privileges is handled by the Utah Driver License Division (DLD).
Because these are separate processes, waiting for your first court appearance before thinking about your driver's license can be a mistake.
You Have 10 Days to Request a DLD Hearing
After a DUI arrest, time matters.
Utah gives you 10 calendar days to request a hearing with the Driver License Division. This hearing gives you an opportunity to challenge the administrative action against your driving privileges.
If you miss that deadline, your options may become more limited.
That's why it's important to look carefully at the paperwork you receive after an arrest instead of putting it aside for later.
How Long Can Your License Be Suspended?
The answer depends on several factors, including your age, whether you have previous offenses, and whether you submitted to or refused chemical testing.
For a driver age 21 or older, a first qualifying DUI-related administrative suspension is generally 120 days. A second or subsequent offense can result in a two-year suspension.
Different rules apply to drivers under 21.
Your specific driving record and circumstances should always be reviewed before assuming a particular suspension period applies to you.
What If You Refused a Chemical Test?
Refusing chemical testing can lead to significantly longer consequences for your driving privileges.
For drivers 21 and older, a first administrative refusal can generally result in an 18-month revocation. A second or subsequent refusal can result in a 36-month revocation.
Drivers under 21 can face different and potentially longer consequences.
Utah does provide early-reinstatement options in certain circumstances, but eligibility depends on the facts of the case and may require steps such as installing an ignition interlock device.
Can You Keep Driving After the Arrest?
A DUI arrest does not necessarily mean you lose your driving privileges the moment you leave the police station.
The DLD provides a period before an administrative suspension takes effect, depending on the action involved. Your arrest paperwork should explain the administrative process and how to request a hearing.
Don't assume that being able to drive today means your license is safe from suspension later.
What Happens if You're Convicted?
A DUI conviction can create additional driver's license consequences.
Depending on the circumstances, you may also face requirements or restrictions involving an ignition interlock device or alcohol-restricted driver status.
For example, Utah's DLD states that a driver age 21 or older convicted of an alcohol-related DUI is generally subject to an ignition interlock restriction for 18 months.
The exact consequences depend on your age, driving history, the type of DUI allegation, and the outcome of the case.
Can You Get Your License Back Early?
In some circumstances, yes.
Utah provides early-reinstatement procedures for certain DUI-related suspensions and revocations. Eligibility can depend on factors such as whether this is a first or subsequent offense and whether an ignition interlock device has been installed.
There may also be fees and other requirements before your driving privileges can be restored.
Because these rules are specific to the individual driver's situation, it is important to find out what options actually apply to you.
Don't Ignore the Driver's License Side of a DUI
After a DUI arrest, it's easy to focus entirely on the criminal charge.
But your driver's license deserves immediate attention too.
Remember:
- Read the paperwork you received after your arrest
- Know that the DLD process is separate from the criminal case
- Request your DLD hearing within 10 days
- Understand whether you are facing a suspension or revocation
- Find out whether reinstatement options may be available
- Keep track of both your DLD and court deadlines
Acting quickly can help you understand your options before important deadlines pass.
Facing a DUI Charge in Utah?
A DUI arrest can affect much more than your court record. Your ability to drive may also be at stake, and the administrative process can begin quickly.
Veronica K. McDougal, P.C. represents individuals facing DUI charges in Murray and throughout Utah. Our firm can help you understand both the criminal case and the driver's license issues that may follow an arrest.
Contact Veronica K. McDougal, P.C. to schedule a free consultation and discuss your DUI defense options.
