How Many DUIs Before You Lose Your License in Illinois?

License suspension and revocation are major concerns for Illinois drivers facing DUI charges. Whether this is your first time or not, you may be wondering how many DUIs before you lose your license in Illinois. Like anything else in criminal defense, the answer depends on several factors. A Springfield DUI and criminal defense attorney from Holley, Rosen, & Beard is prepared to fight to mitigate the risk to your license.

License Suspension Duration Increases With Subsequent DUIs

A DUI begins as a misdemeanor in most cases, but can become more serious if there are aggravating circumstances or you have multiple prior convictions for similar behavior. At the time of your arrest, you may receive a temporary driving permit that is valid for 45 days. You may appeal the administrative suspension during this time, requesting the ability to continue driving until your case is resolved.

First DUI License Suspension

The penalty for your first DUI conviction typically results in a loss of full driving privileges for at least 12 months. However, you may be eligible for monitoring through a vehicle interlock system that requires a breath test before you can start the ignition.

You may face additional limitations on where and when you can drive. For example, you may be limited to driving only to work or school, and not between the hours of 10 pm and 6am.

Second & Third DUI Conviction License Suspension

With your second DUI conviction within a 5-year period, the Illinois State Police Department states that the penalty includes a five-year loss of full driving privileges. However, you may be able to apply for a Restricted Driving Permit(RDP) that allows you to continue commuting to critical appointments like work, school, or support/recovery groups.

Upon your third DUI conviction, you must comply with a minimum 10-year loss of full driving privileges. In some instances, you may still be eligible to apply for the RDP, but you may only drive vehicles with BAIID monitoring and must have it installed in any vehicles registered to you.

License Limitations After a Fourth and Subsequent DUI

After a fourth conviction, you must serve at least 5 years of the license revocation before you are eligible for an RDP.

Subsequent DUIs may result in a lifetime revocation of your license. If you obtain an RDP, you must keep BAIID installed in all your vehicles for the duration of your driving. Additionally, you may only drive vehicles with BAIID installed.

Call Holley, Rosen, & Beard Today to Protect Your License

A license in today’s world is an important part of being a functioning member of society. It can be what stands between you and maintaining gainful employment, making it to support groups, or getting your kids to and from doctors’ appointments. Without a proper defense, you may find yourself with bigger problems than you already had.

At Holley, Rosen, & Beard, we are ready to fight to minimize restrictions on your license, so you can keep living your life and move past the arrest. Call us today to schedule a case consultation and learn more about your options.