Driving is a daily necessity for many—whether it's commuting to work or school, attending medical appointments, running errands, or enjoying social events. But what happens if you're charged with driving under the influence (DUI) and your license is suspended in Connecticut? Losing your license can be overwhelming, but understanding how the process works is the first step toward restoring your driving privileges.
Who Suspends Your License After a DUI Arrest?
Many drivers assume that the police or the court suspends their license after a DUI arrest. However, it is the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that handles this process. Once you're arrested for DUI, a copy of your arrest report is sent to the DMV, which then initiates the administrative license suspension.
It's important to understand that driving in Connecticut is a privilege, not a right. This means the DMV has the authority to revoke or suspend your driver's license independently of any criminal court proceedings.
Important Note: If you're caught driving with a suspended license, you may face additional criminal charges, fines, potential jail time, and further complications when trying to reinstate your license.
How Long Will Your License Be Suspended?
The length of your license suspension after a DUI in Connecticut depends on several factors, including the number of prior offenses and whether you complied with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) test.
Under Connecticut's Implied Consent Law, all licensed drivers automatically agree to submit to BAC testing when suspected of DUI. Refusing the test can result in longer suspension periods.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical suspension durations:
If your DUI incident involved an accident resulting in injury or death, the DMV may impose more severe penalties, including extended or lifetime suspensions.
How to Get to Work or School with a Suspended License
Being unable to drive can severely disrupt your life, especially if you rely on your vehicle for essential travel. Fortunately, Connecticut offers a Special Operator’s Permit for qualifying drivers whose licenses have been suspended for a first-time DUI offense.
To apply, you must:
This permit is limited in scope and only allows you to travel to and from approved destinations like work or school.
Can You Reinstate a Revoked Driver’s License?
If your license was permanently revoked due to a third DUI offense or a serious DUI-related incident, you may petition for reinstatement—but not right away.
You must wait at least two years from the effective date of the revocation before requesting a DMV hearing to restore your driving privileges. While this process can be initiated on your own, having a knowledgeable Connecticut DUI defense attorney significantly increases your chances of a successful outcome.
How the Law Offices of Pat Brown Can Help
Since 2008, the legal team at the Law Offices of Pat Brown has helped hundreds of Connecticut drivers navigate DUI charges, protect their rights, and regain their driving privileges. Whether you're a first-time offender or dealing with a license revocation after multiple DUI convictions, our attorneys are here to help.
We represent a wide range of DUI clients, including:
Free Legal Consultation for DUI-Related License Suspensions
If you've been charged with DUI and are facing a driver’s license suspension or revocation in Connecticut, don’t go it alone. Contact the Law Offices of Pat Brown today for a free consultation. We'll review your case, explain your legal options, and guide you through the process of getting back on the road.
