How Many DUIs Does it Take to Permanently Lose Your License?
Do not underestimate law enforcement when it comes to driving under the influence charges in Nashville. You could be facing significant fines, jail time, and even the long-term loss of your driver’s license after just one DUI conviction. Contact the experienced Nashville DUI defense lawyers at Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC.
Overview of License-Related Penalties for Tennessee DUI Offenses
License revocation (or suspension) is a common penalty associated with drunk driving and related drug offenses under Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 55-10-401, et al. An experienced DUI defense attorney can often help you obtain a restricted license, allowing you to travel to work, school, or for family matters, even if you’re convicted of drunk driving in Nashville. However, certain offenses carry mandatory license revocation periods:
General DUI Offenses in Nashville
First-time DUI offenders may have their licenses revoked for 1 year, but restricted licenses are available if you have the right legal advocate. Penalties increase for second, third, and all other subsequent general DUI offenses under Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-10-401, but restricted licenses are available in these cases. Your license may be revoked for a period, but this is not a permanent revocation even after multiple DUI convictions.
Aggravated DUIs, Child Endangerment, and Vehicular Homicide Charges
If you’ve been charged with one of the following aggravated drunk driving offenses, you may be in danger of losing your license for up to 10 years:
- Endangering a child passenger
- Causing bodily injury
- Contributing to a fatal crash
- Multiple DUIs in a short period
- Drunk driving on a restricted or suspended license
Additionally, you might also have difficulty obtaining a new driver’s license when the revocation period expires. Contact a DUI lawyer in Nashville immediately if you’re facing aggravated vehicular charges related to drugs or alcohol.
Reinstating Your License After Alcohol-Related Offenses in Nashville
In Tennessee, holding a driver’s license is considered a privilege and not a legal right. The state is under no obligation to grant your request for reinstatement if the evidence indicates you pose a significant danger to the public. However, you may be able to apply for license reinstatement after the prescribed revocation period with dedicated legal advocacy.
To get your full license reinstated after one or more DUI convictions, you must generally pay a reinstatement fee and filing fee and reapply for a valid license. This might include taking any necessary tests and paying any general driver’s license fees. It’s important to work with a DUI defense lawyer during the reinstatement process to maximize your chances of recovering your driver’s license.
Discuss Potential Drunk Driving Penalties and License Revocation with Nashville DUI Defense Counsel
At Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC, Attorneys at Law, we understand that losing your license after a DUI could also mean losing your job. It impacts your relationships, finances, and schooling. We fight for the best possible outcome in your DUI case, including requesting a restricted license and bulletproofing your reinstatement application. Schedule a DUI case consultation with our Nashville criminal defense lawyers today by calling 615-846-9889 or connecting with us online.