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Can I drive after I’ve been arrested for DUI in Florida? DUI Attorney explains

Can I drive after I’ve been arrested for DUI in Florida? DUI Attorney explains

Can I drive after I’ve been arrested for DUI in Florida? Fort Lauderdale DUI Attorney explains Driving Privileges in South Florida

The short answer is yes. It is possible to continue to drive after you’ve been arrested on a DUI charge in Florida. 

You likely will not enjoy normal driving privileges, however. Florida law  is strict even for first-time DUI offenders, and there are specific rules and deadlines that must be met very soon after your arrest in order to continue driving.

Typically, when arrested for DUI you are given a form from police officers that indicates that the form gives you permission to drive for the next 10 days.

Florida’s 10-Day Rule DUI License Rule 

In Florida, if you are arrested for DUI, your license will be suspended immediately. You may drive during the subsequent 10 days using your DUI ticket as a temporary permit to drive only to work. These “business purpose only” (or “hardship”) privileges are good only for those 10 days immediately following your arrest.

During that time, however, you may request an administrative hearing with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. At the hearing, officials will decide if law enforcement was justified in suspending your license. It is possible the suspension will be lifted at this hearing.

If it is determined that law enforcement was correct, you may see your license suspended for a period of months or years, depending on the unique circumstances of your case. If you fail to request a hearing within the 10-day window, your license will certainly be suspended.

An infographic made by DUI attorneys about DUI convictions and driving privileges in Fort Lauderdale and South Florida

After a Florida DUI, Hardship Licenses are for Business Purposes Only

Even if your license is suspended, you may not lose your driving privileges completely. The hardship license can be extended for the duration of the suspension of your regular license if you meet certain criteria, including:

  • It’s your first DUI arrest. Florida law does not allow anyone but first-time DUI offenders to obtain a hardship license.
  • You enroll in a DUI program. The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles states these courses “provide education, a psychosocial evaluation, and treatment referral services to DUI offenders.” It is possible to obtain a hardship license before you have fully completed the course, as long as you are enrolled.
  • You install an ignition interlock device. While this is not required in all cases, it is often stipulated that the driver must use an ignition interlock device to start and run his vehicle. These devices force a driver to check his BAC level to start the car and to continue to check periodically to keep the car going. These devices can be very expensive,

An experienced Florida DUI attorney can help you understand your rights and help fight to retain driving privileges. 

If you’ve been arrested for DUI in  South Florida, you must take action quickly to give yourself the best possible chance at avoiding a license suspension or loss.

If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, Sunrise or anywhere in South Florida – call Rossen Law Firm to learn more about your options. We offer free strategy sessions for you to learn how we’d defend your case. 

→ RELATED: DUI Penalties and Consequences in Florida 

Give us a call today:

  • Fort Lauderdale: (754) 206-6200
  • Sunrise: (754) 999-2499 
  • Boca Raton: (561) 880-8181
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kevin tabronkevin tabron
00:07 08 Sep 22
In one of the most stressful times in my life, Rossen Law Firm was there for me. Leaving no stone unturned they provided patience and knowledge in every detail of my case. I’m very thankful and proud of this law firm family and especially of my lawyer, Scott Simmons for guiding, defending and helping me in every way possible. He and this law firm family come highly recommended from personal experience!!!
Jason HigleyJason Higley
15:24 26 Aug 22
I had an unfortunate situation with a family member that lead to my arrest and being charged with DV Battery. This was the first time I had ever been arrested so I was very nervous and afraid of what was going to happen to me. After talking with Adam I decided to retain him and let me tell you this was the BEST decision I could have ever made. Adam made me feel so comfortable and confident that everything will turn out the best in my favor. He is professional, ethical and supportive. He was always available too answer any questions or concerns.Not to mention, his team at the office is awesome they are so friendly and welcoming. Anytime I had a question when I called the office they were able to guide me in the rightdirection. They always were in contact with me with any information or updates regarding my case. Adams team is GREAT!Adam delivered, my case was DISMISSED. So if you want an attorney the is gonna fight for you and get the job done retain the BEST there is Adam Rossen!!!
Felix I HFelix I H
13:27 28 Jul 22
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Terry ChristopherTerry Christopher
12:32 09 May 22
I had an amazing experience with The Rossen Law Firm. The staff were very professional. Attorney Susan Lawson went above and beyond working on my case. We were thoroughly prepared for trial. Mrs. Lawson reviewed hours of body and dash camera footage multiple times and aggressively performed depositions on witnesses and law enforcement.The final outcome for me was the state dropped my case, due to the great work Susan and the Rossen team performed. I didn’t even need to go to trial.This law firm does not play around. They pay attention to detail and they FIGHT FOR YOU!Thank you Adam, team, and a special thank you to Susan for your amazing work! I really appreciate you.
Ketiana ProvinceKetiana Province
20:27 23 Mar 22
My experience with Rossen Law Firm was excellent. From the consultation to the end.. My attorney Susan Lawson gave my son's case all the time and attention that was needed to be successful in court. She was confident during all the court proceedings. My favorite part was when she said we are family, never once my son and I were treated other then that. I very much appreciate the knowledge and support I received through Rossen Law Firm.
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