Florida’s 10-Day Rule for DUI License Suspension

In Florida, a DUI offender’s license can be suspended for a year by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), even with a first-time conviction. In the first 10 days after receiving a DUI charge, however, anyone can contest the administrative license suspension with the DMV, and (if awarded) keep driving until a hearing date for the DUI has been set. The reasons for this vary, but, most people want to still drive so they can keep a job, help family members and generally continue life as normal, despite a drunk driving charge.

Once convicted of DUI in Florida, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device on your car for many of the same reasons you wanted to contest your license suspension – to keep your life as productive as possible. Staying employed without transportation can be difficult, and any other work, school or medical needs are easier to fulfill if you are able to drive your own car. The ignition interlock requirement in Florida is designed to allow you the freedom to drive, but, it comes with the understanding that you will be driving soberly.

With the use of an ignition interlock device, there is an assurance that when you are behind the wheel of your car, you have not been consuming alcohol, or putting others’ lives at risk. Being responsible is more than working, going to school or paying bills; it is also making smart choices when it comes to drinking and driving. Within 10 days after a DUI arrest or accident in Florida, you have plenty of time to request the freedom to keep driving through the DMV. With an ignition interlock device, your freedom goes even further with the ability to prove you deserve to keep driving by remaining sober behind the wheel.