If you are arrested for drunk driving, you will not only need to attend a court hearing but you will also be subject to administrative action by the Virginia Dept. of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The DMV actually plays a major role in determining when, or if, you can get your driver’s license back and what you must do in order for your license to be reinstated.
Many people who are arrested for impaired driving are surprised to find themselves coping with an administrative license suspension by the VA DMV. Others may not know how to navigate the agency requirements for reinstating a suspended license or getting a hardship license.
It is important to understand your rights and to be prepared for actions the Virginia DMV will take against you. The Wilson Law Firm can represent you both in your court proceedings and in administrative processes involving the DMV. Call or contact us online today to learn more.
Drunk Driving Triggers Action by the VA DMV
While you may be concerned that a judge is going to order a suspended license if you are convicted of drunk driving, the DMV is actually the first to act. As soon as you are arrested for impaired driving, the Department of Motor Vehicles will suspend your license. Depending upon whether you have any prior offenses, this administrative license suspension can remain in effect until your court trial at which time your license may be revoked for a period of time.
The DMV has imposed reinstatement requirements for getting driving privileges back after your license has been revoked or suspended. According to the Virginia DMV, there are a variety of requirements that you may need to fulfill before the agency will give back your license. Requirements may include:
- Providing the DMV with proof that all fines and court costs have been paid
- Providing the DMV with an SR22 or FR44 Certificate of Insurance from a licensed insurer in the state of Virginia
- Providing proof of successful completion of the Virginia Alcohol and Safety Program
- Completing an intervention interview with VASAP
- Providing proof that fees owed to the local regional jail or correctional facility have been paid
- Paying DMV reinstatement fees, which can range from $40 to $220
- Providing a court order demonstrating that restricted driving privileges are permitted
The DMV provides a Compliance Summary and Driver Transcript with information on the specific requirements that you must fulfill in order for your license to be reinstated.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
At The Wilson Law Firm, our experienced Virginia DUI lawyers are not only prepared to represent you in court but we can also help you in navigating the DMV maze. From fighting an administrative suspension to getting your license reinstated, our attorneys will do everything that we can to help you protect your right to drive.
To learn more about how we can help you with the Virginia DMV, contact us today at 703-361-6100 to speak with a member of our legal team.