The glaring lights in your rearview mirror, the roadside sobriety test and the booking process. When facing a second DUI charge in Florida, these experiences come with a heightened sense of dread—and for good reason.
Florida law imposes harsher penalties for second DUI offenses, especially regarding your driver’s license. A conviction usually means a lengthy license revocation, which can severely impact your daily life.
Understanding license revocation periods
If you have multiple DUI offenses, the length of time your driver’s license is revoked depends on when your previous DUI occurred. If the second DUI happens within five years of the first, your license will be revoked for at least five years. Aggravating circumstances, such as incidents that cause injury or damage to property, can lead to an extended revocation period.
Steps to regain driving privileges
License reinstatement is not automatic. To legally drive again in Florida, you must complete several requirements:
- Complete DUI School Level II (21 hours of instruction)
- Undergo substance abuse evaluation and any recommended treatment
- Serve at least 12 months of your revocation period
- Pay all court fines and reinstatement fees
- Have an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed in your vehicle
- Obtain FR-44 insurance (higher liability coverage)
- Apply for a hardship license through an administrative hearing
Every step needs close attention to detail and the right paperwork. If you miss any requirements or deadlines, it could restart your waiting period or result in extra penalties.
Exploring a hardship license
Once you have completed one year of your revocation period, you become eligible to submit an application for a hardship license that would permit driving for business or employment purposes. This limited license permits essential driving while you work toward full reinstatement.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles requires proof that you have completed DUI school and any mandated treatment programs before considering your hardship application.
Legal counsel matters
With proper legal guidance, regaining driving privileges after a second Florida DUI in Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry or Glades counties may be possible. An experienced lawyer can identify potential defenses, negotiate with prosecutors and guide you through the administrative hearings.
Losing your license can create many difficulties. Your freedom to drive is important, and taking the right steps can help you reclaim it. Contact us today for confidential legal advice.
