| Read Time: 3 minutes | DUI

Yes, You Can! Here’s What You Need to Know

Close up of the person's hand on the car window with the driver's license as it is shown to the police officer for control

In Virginia, if you meet the criteria, you may have the ability to get a limited license or hardship license after being convicted of a first or second DUI offense. If there has been an accident or injury, the legal situation may be more complex to resolve, especially if your driver’s license is suspended due to a DUI charge. Individuals often ask, “Can you drive to work with a suspended license?” The answer depends on whether you qualify for a work permit or have a commercial driver’s license, as the restrictions may vary. Additionally, a suspension for a DUI can affect your ability to attend essential activities, such as medical appointments, without proper legal arrangements. A failed chemical test might also complicate matters. The first action you should take is to get legal representation from experienced DUI lawyers to help you resolve this important situation and minimize the criminal consequences.

Every case must be carefully analyzed to determine what legal action should be taken to allow you to restore your driving privileges. If you have been arrested and charged with DUI, you have several options. If you plead guilty, you will face license suspension for up to one year. Whether you can restore your driving privileges, obtain a limited license, or have your license reinstated depends greatly on the abilities of the defense lawyer representing you.

A restricted license gives you the right to legally drive – but only to and from certain locations, such as work, school, medical appointments, or other essential destinations. At the time of a conviction, you can request a restricted license; however, you may face a waiting period depending on your case circumstances, such as a prior DUI charge or hard suspension due to an aggravated offense. Some may face a license suspension period of up to 4 months before being eligible for a restricted license.

For individuals caught driving with a suspended license, the penalties can be severe. If your license is suspended due to a DUI conviction or other motor vehicle offenses, fighting the charges against you or seeking an acquittal can make it easier to restore your driving record and regain driving privileges. In some cases, a hard suspension may apply, preventing any driving for a short period, while others may be eligible for a work permit to handle essential needs. However, for those with prior convictions for drunk driving or multiple DUI offenses, the legal challenges and suspension periods are even more serious. It’s crucial to have your case evaluated immediately by skilled DUI lawyers who can guide you on obtaining a restricted driver’s license or addressing an ignition interlock device requirement.

The laws in Virginia impose heavy penalties on DUI drivers, and even a first DUI conviction will result in a suspension for a DUI, often requiring an interlock device as a condition of license reinstatement. If you have concerns about your ability to drive to work with a suspended license or need guidance on obtaining a work permit or limited license, we urge you to contact our firm. We can help you navigate your case and ensure you meet all requirements, such as using an ignition interlock device, to regain your driving privileges legally.

Contact the Law Offices of Michael A. Pignone at once for a free consultation and more information about restoring your driving privileges after a DUI arrest, license suspension, or other criminal charges.

Author Photo

Michael Pignone

Michael Pignone was raised and has lived in Prince William County since 1972. He attended public schools in the county and graduated high school from Osbourn High in Manassas. Following high school, he attended George Mason University where he graduated with honors from the Business School with a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance. He was then accepted into, and graduated with honors from, Suffolk Law School in Boston, Massachusetts. Before entering private practice, he clerked for the Prosecutor in the Prince William County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.

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