Being arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) can result in the suspension of a driver’s license. The first offense has a license suspension penalty of up to a year, the second one can attract up to three years of suspension and the third offense within five years of the second offense carries a license revocation for five years.
Further, since Georgia has an Implied Consent law, a driver refusing to submit to a chemical test to determine if they are operating their vehicle while intoxicated is an offense with penalties, one of them being a driver’s license suspension for a minimum of one year.
Driving with a suspended license can lead to a fine, jail term or a potential extension of the existing suspension. You need to find alternatives for getting around, including:
Applying for a restricted license
Georgia allows drivers with a suspended license to apply for a limited driving permit. A driver who qualifies for this permit may only use it when:
- Driving to work
- Receiving medical attention or getting prescribed drugs
- Attending school
- Attending support organizations for the treatment of alcohol or other drugs
- Attending a driver education program
- Attending court sessions
- Transporting an immediate unlicensed family member to work, school or medical care
Using a limited driving permit for any other duties may be unlawful.
Using public transport
Public transport is another option to consider when your driver’s license is suspended. Ensure you are informed about the system’s routes and schedules.
Ask loved ones to help you
Consider asking loved ones to give you rides to work, school and other errands.
Besides the discussed options, you can use rideshare services or a bike. If you are accused of DUI, it’s crucial to understand how to defend yourself. If your license has already been suspended, obtain more information on how to regain your driving privileges.