Does a 2nd DWI Mean a Mandatory License Suspension?

When someone has been convicted of a second DWI charge, you may wonder if that means a mandatory license suspension.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation enforces different consequences from the criminal legal system, from the arrest to post-conviction. So you'll have to deal with the administrative and legal repercussions.

Will I Lose My Driver's License After A Second DWI Conviction?

For individuals who receive two DWI convictions within three years will have their driver's license revoked for four years. Also, anyone who refuses a blood alcohol test on the scene will immediately have their license suspended.

However, you may petition the court for limited driving privileges to drive in a limited capacity for activities such as work. However, North Carolina ranks the seriousness of DWI convictions on Levels, and Level II or Level 1 offenders will not receive limited driving privileges. Therefore, it's best to employ an experienced DWI attorney to help you receive the limited driving allowances, as the lawyer can help illustrate you're not a danger to society and that not driving would severely impact your life without the ability to drive.

To have your license reinstated, you will be required to complete a drug and alcohol assessment and treatment program. The court also requires second-time offenders to install an ignition interlock device on their vehicle to have their license reinstated. The driver must blow into the machine to ensure they're not driving under the influence.

What Should I Do If I've Been Charged With A DUI?

Contact the Knox Law Center immediately if you've been charged with a DUI. We offer complimentary consultations to help you get a jump start on preparing for your case.

Contacting us immediately is essential, as specific video evidence may be destroyed if not quickly subpoenaed. We can also help expedite your license reinstatement. DWI typically results in 30-day license revocation, and we can usually get your privilege to drive reinstated after only ten days.