How to Get Your Driver's License Back After a Rhode Island DUI Conviction

 

If you live in the state of Rhode Island, you should know that one of the penalties for a DUI conviction is the suspension of your driver’s license. You will be unable to drive for one month to three years, depending on how many previous DUI convictions you have and your blood alcohol content at the time of arrest. When your suspension period is up, you will have to take steps to have your driver’s license restored.

Process for Rhode Island Driver’s License Reinstatement

 

After your suspension, a hearing officer with Operator Control must deem you safe to resume driving. If he or she does, then you can visit a DMV with your reinstatement notice, a form of ID, your Social Security card, proof of your address, and payment of the reinstatement fee via check or credit card. To see how much you need to pay, refer to the fee schedule on the DMV website as each case may be a little different.

 

For more details, contact the Operator Control:

Operator Control Division
600 New London Ave.
Cranston, RI 02920
(401) 462-0800
 

If your driver’s license has been revoked, this will mean long-term loss of your driving privileges, usually from 3 to 10 years. There is no guarantee that you will be allowed to have a driver’s license again. In a hearing with an Operator Control, they will decide whether you pose a threat to the public. If you participate in drug and alcohol education programs or a driver safety course, you can improve your changes, but the best way to protect your interests is to hire an experienced Rhode Island DUI attorney to work with you.

 

Hardship Driver’s Licenses in Rhode Island

 

In many states, you have the possibility to start driving before your suspension is up by applying for a hardship driver’s license that allows you to drive in limited circumstances, such as to and from work. Unfortunately, Rhode Island does not offer these types of driver’s license, so you will not be able to drive legally until your suspension is up and your driver’s license has been reinstated.

 

Ignition Interlock Device Requirements

 

If you have been convicted of a second or subsequent DUI offense within 5 years, the courts may order you to install an ignition interlock device on your car for up to two years after your driver’s license suspension. You will be required to pay for the installation, which is typically $150, and maintenance of the device, which is around $100 a month. The device works by requiring that you pass a breathalyzer test before the car will start. Then as you drive, it will give you additional breathalyzer tests to ensure that you did not have someone else pass that initial test for you. If you fail one of these “rolling” tests, your car will sound an alarm until you pull over and stop the car. Any failed breathalyzer tests, as well as any attempts to tamper with or disable the device, will be recorded by the machine. This information can be used against you when it comes time to have your driver’s license fully reinstated, can result in additional penalties, and can cause your driver’s license to be suspended again.

 

Get More Information about Rhode Island Driver’s License Reinstatement

 

You may have questions specific to your situation. It is recommended that you consult an experienced Rhode Island DUI attorney who understands the ins and outs of the process and can protect your interests. You can also learn more on the Rhode Island DMV website or by contacting the Operator Control Division using the contact information listed above.