How to Get My License Back After a DUI in Washington

Dealing with the aftermath of a DUI is not an insignificant task, and it isn’t meant to be.  If you are facing DUI charges or a conviction, you may be wondering how difficult it will be to get your license back. To get a really clear picture of what to expect from your case, you should consult an experienced Washington DUI defense lawyer for answers. 

At Puget Law Group, we have handled thousands of Washington DUI cases, and we understand that each case is unique and deserves its own individualized approach. Nine of our team members were former prosecutors, which brings valuable insight into your case and how we can compose your defense. 

Purpose of License Suspension

When we discuss trying to get your license back following a Washington DUI, the stage of your case and the type of suspension matters. You are able to appeal a suspension or apply for an occupational or restricted license. These attempts are typically more successful when you have representation from a Washington DUI lawyer. 

Administrative Suspension

The process of an administrative suspension begins at the time of your stop and arrest. The arresting officer will notify the appropriate authorities, and your license will be suspended on day 30 after your arrest. This type of suspension can be appealed if you request the appeal from the Department of Licensing within seven days of your arrest. 

At the time of the appeal, the evidence to justify your suspension will be presented, and you have the right to object to it and provide legal justification. If the hearing goes in your favor, your administrative suspension will be lifted until your trial. You can find the form ‘Request for DUI Hearing’ on the Department of Licensing website, though obtaining the hearing does not happen without a $375 hearing fee.

Conviction

If your license is suspended because of a DUI conviction, there is not an appeal process specifically to get your license back. However, you may be eligible to apply for a restricted license in some cases. This category of license may allow you to drive to specific locations like work, medical appointments, or school. 

At Puget Law Group, we are very familiar with what a restricted license in Washington State is and are available for questions regarding your eligibility. Many times, you must pay fines for and agree to use an ignition interlock device to test your blood alcohol levels to start your vehicle or continue driving it. This license type may also be known as an ignition interlock driver license (IIL) because of this requirement. 

Violation of Probation

If part of your suspension is related to a violation of your court-ordered probation regarding a DUI or physical control charge, you may have fewer options. The Department of Licensing (DoL) will accept an administrative review if it is submitted within 15 days of the suspension letter. Much like a hearing for an administrative suspension, a lawyer may be able to advocate for you more effectively than you could on your own. 

If your review does not go in your favor, you will have to wait out the additional 30-day period before you can take additional action or apply to get your license back after your DUI. The steps to have your license reinstated may vary from person to person. For specific details, you should refer to your suspension letter. 

Eligibility Requirements for Reinstatement

Waiting out your sentence and initial suspension or restriction is just the start of having your Washington license reinstated following your DUI conviction. Several other things may also be required of you, depending on your previous conviction history. However, some of the more common requirements that most should face are:

• Complete treatment recommendations
• Successfully complete probation 
• Meet financial responsibility requirements 
• Pay all court fees or assigned fines

Additionally, you will need to receive an assessment or treatment report from a certified provider in Washington. This assessment will provide an overview of your progress and treatment goals and indicate if there are any concerns regarding abuse or dependence. If the provider has no concerns, you will be required to take a course from a state-approved agency.  

Identifying When You Are Eligible to Reinstate

When you are convicted of a DUI, general sentencing guidelines will affect how long your suspension may last. These are general guidelines, and it should be noted that the penalties for a first-offense DUI in Washington state are different from those for a fourth-offense DUI. If you are unsure how long your suspension should last, you can speak with your attorney or review the suspension letter you should have received after your conviction. 

Reinstatement After a Washington DUI

Once all the conditions of your sentencing are met, you can take the next steps to get your Washington license back after your DUI. You can confirm that all requirements have been met by consulting your suspension letter. Once you know you are eligible, you can apply to reinstate your license with the Department of Licensing online. 

When you apply to have your license reinstated, you will have to pay a $170.00 reinstatement fee for an alcohol-related charge. Beyond that, you will need to pay regular licensing fees. The standard driver licensing fees are $55 or $73 based on how long it is valid. 

Returning to Life After a DUI in Washington

Being arrested for a DUI in Washington can make matters difficult for anyone. The best way to manage the situation is to call a DUI defense attorney with Puget Law Group as soon as you are arrested. While the goal is always to have charges dismissed, even if that is not an option, we will fight diligently to minimize the severity and impact of sentencing. 

You deserve a fighting chance at reducing your charges and sentencing. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to discuss your situation or schedule a free consultation. Take steps to protect your future by calling us today.