Being charged with driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in South Carolina. A conviction can result in harsh penalties including hefty monetary fines, potential jail time, and the loss of your driving privileges. Having your driving privileges revoked can have a devastating impact on you and your family. Living without your license isn’t just an inconvenience as it can affect your livelihood. As such, you likely want to get behind the wheel as soon as possible. Following a DUI suspension, you may be wondering whether you can get your driver’s license back early. Please continue to learn if this is an option in South Carolina and how an experienced Chesterfield County DUI Lawyer can help you mitigate the impact of this penalty.
How Long Will My License Be Suspended After a DUI in SC?
Those who are found to have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher will likely face DUI charges in South Carolina. As mentioned above, the penalties for a DUI can result in jail time, hefty fines, and license suspension. It’s important to note that regardless of whether this is your first, second, third, or subsequent offense, the greater your BAC at the time of the offense, the harsher the consequences you will face.
The amount of time your driver’s license will be suspended after a DUI conviction in South Carolina will depend on several factors, including whether any aggravating factors such as prior DUI charges, you will lose your driving privileges for a longer period. This is because South Carolina courts are tough when handling cases involving repeat offenders as they want to discourage defendants from engaging in similar egregious behavior in the future.
That said for a first offense DUI, you will face a six-month driver’s license revocation. After you are arrested for a second DUI offense, the penalties will be enhanced. You will lose your driving privileges for one year. A third DUI will result in a 2-4 year driver’s license revocation. If you are arrested for a fourth or subsequent DUI offense, you will face the permanent revocation of your driver’s license.
Can I Get My License Back Early After a Suspension?
Depending on the circumstances of your DUI offense, you may be eligible to receive a provisional or conditional license. This temporary license allows motorists who have lost their license due to suspension or revocation to continue driving under certain restrictions. Generally, motorists are only allowed to drive to places like work, school, and court-mandated programs.
A provisional license can remain valid for six months or as long as the duration of your suspension. Once your suspension is over, you can apply to have your driver’s license reinstated. It’s important to note that you will have to pay a reinstatement fee of $100 and show proof of your completion of the Alcohol and Drug Safety Program (ADSAP).
At the Cockrell Law Firm, P.C., we are prepared to help you fight for the best possible outcome for your case. Connect with our firm today to learn more about your rights and options.
