Many Oklahoma motorists don’t realize that driving is actually a privilege, not a right, until they are at risk of losing that privilege. Criminal infractions that involve driving can lead to driving penalties. State law allows the courts to impose licensing penalties on those who are convicted of an impaired driving offense in criminal court.
Driving under the influence (DUI) charges in Oklahoma often results in licensing consequences in addition to large fines, jail time and a criminal record. There are two different licensing penalties commonly imposed after someone please guilty or gets convicted of a DUI offense in Oklahoma.
License suspension
Judges frequently suspend people’s driver’s licenses after a DUI conviction. That individual will not be able to operate a motor vehicle until the suspension period ends or they petition the courts for reinstatement of their license or a restricted license. Repeat offenders and those with unusually high levels of alcohol in their bloodstream may lose their license for longer than others. Not being able to drive can cause significant personal hardship for an individual and their family. It can even potentially endanger their job. It can be very expensive for someone who cannot drive to find alternative transportation. In some cases, the loss of licensing can prevent someone from doing their work.
Ignition interlock device requirements
Oklahoma judges can mandate that someone install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle after a DUI arrest. An IID costs money to install and will also cost money regularly, as drivers will have to present it for calibration and maintenance. Having an IID in a vehicle does allow someone restricted driving privileges, but it can be a source of both expense and embarrassment, they will have to perform a test in front of other people every time they drive. In fact, the state will print the fact that they require an IID On their license, and they could end up arrested if they get caught driving a vehicle without one installed.
Those who have recently been arrested for a DUI offense may feel more motivated to fight the charges they face when they realize that fines and a few days in jail are not the only penalties they potentially face. Seeking legal guidance and pushing back against a DUI charge can help someone preserve their driver’s license and also their freedom.