Accusations of driving under the influence (DUI) offenses can lead to major criminal consequences for anyone arrested in Oklahoma. The courts can sentence someone to jail time, large fines and probation. Many people also potentially face licensing consequences.
Drivers in different scenarios in Oklahoma accused of a DUI may face different penalties. What are three different scenarios in which a driver could face some kind of licensing consequence?
They may lose their driver’s license
Depending on your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of your arrest and also your prior driving record, the state may suspend your driver’s license for anywhere from several months to several years. A license suspension is an appropriate punishment for a driving-related offense.
Some drivers will need to install ignition interlock devices (IIDs) in their vehicles before they fully regain driving privileges after a DUI. Anyone driving a vehicle without an IID installed while subject to such a requirement could face continued penalties.
They could lose their commercial driver’s license
Having a commercial driver’s license legally authorizes someone to drive heavy trucks. Driving commercial vehicles is a demanding but potentially lucrative career for those who can adhere to the strict safety requirements for this work.
Such drivers must adhere to higher driving standards than those in passenger vehicles. Someone driving a commercial vehicle could face a DUI and the loss of their CDL if they have a BAC of 0.04% or higher. Anyone with a commercial license who gets arrested in their own vehicle could lose their CDL for an offense that doesn’t happen while on the job. They can try to reinstate their CDL after losing it, but avoiding a DUI is often a better solution.
They could lose professional licensing unrelated to driving
Many professions require state licensing, and each industry maintains its own standards. Individuals working in licensed professions might lose their state license to perform their jobs after a criminal charge. Especially when a drunk driving offense involves injury to someone else, there could be professional licensing consequences even if driving has nothing to do with your daily work responsibilities.
Understanding the numerous consequences of a DUI conviction could help you decide if defending yourself in criminal court is the right response to your recent arrest.