Drivers accused of operating while intoxicated (OWI) offenses are at risk of several different consequences. Incarceration and fines are common. The state also frequently suspends the driver’s licenses of those convicted of OWI offenses.
In some cases, motorists may be eligible for a restricted driver’s license after an OWI offense. They can maintain a degree of independence despite their recent criminal conviction. However, they cannot drive anywhere they want while subject to court-imposed restrictions.
What limitations are often associated with a restricted license?
The state limits where (and maybe when) people drive
Those who plead guilty or get convicted of OWI offenses typically face a license suspension as one of the penalties imposed by the courts. A driver facing a first-time OWI usually loses their driver’s license for 30 days. After that, they can apply for a restricted license.
The driver’s restricted license lasts for 150 days after a standard, first-time OWI offense. If the charge involves a particularly high blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.17% or higher, then the suspension period lasts for 45 days, while the restricted license lasts for 320 days.
The state limits where and possibly also when a driver can operate a vehicle. Typically, those with restricted licenses can only drive to specific locations. Those destinations include home, work, court and facilities associated with their criminal conviction.
They can drive to a treatment facility, a probation officer’s office or the site of community service. If the defendant is enrolled at an educational institution, they can also typically drive to and from class as well. In some cases, the courts can also impose time limitations to keep drivers off the road at night, although time restrictions are less common than rules about their destination.
The driver with the restricted license has to carry documentation affirming their destination when they drive. If a police officer pulls the driver over, they need to be able to show that they are on their way to an approved destination.
People hoping to avoid the worst possible consequences after OWI arrests may need help as they prepare a defense strategy, and that’s okay. Responding appropriately to OWI charges can help people preserve their driving privileges and avoid the other common penalties associated with drunk driving convictions.