Do You Lose Your License Immediately After a DUI in Georgia?
If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Georgia, one of the first questions you may have is, “Do I lose my license right away?” At The Spizman Firm, our Atlanta Criminal Defense Attorneys know how confusing and stressful the aftermath of a DUI arrest can be, especially when it comes to your ability to drive. The answer isn’t as simple as “yes” or “no,” but understanding how the license suspension process works can help you make the right moves early on.
The 30-Day Rule: Act Fast to Save Your License
You do not automatically lose your license the moment you’re arrested, but your driving privileges are at serious risk, and the clock starts ticking immediately. After a DUI arrest in Georgia, you have only 30 days to take action to prevent an automatic license suspension.
You must choose between two options:
- Request an Administrative License Suspension (ALS) hearing, or
- Install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on your vehicle for a limited driving permit (if eligible).
If you don’t do either within 30 days, your driver’s license will be automatically suspended, even before your criminal case is resolved.
What Triggers a License Suspension After DUI?
There are a few scenarios where license suspension comes into play after a DUI arrest:
- Refusal to take a breath, blood, or urine test after being arrested can result in a one-year license suspension under Georgia’s implied consent law.
- Failing a breath test (blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher) can also trigger administrative suspension, even before conviction.
- If you’re convicted of DUI, you face mandatory license suspension as part of the criminal penalties.
These administrative suspensions are separate from the court process, which is why it’s critical to respond quickly.
ALS Hearing vs. Ignition Interlock Permit
If you request an ALS hearing, you’ll have the chance to challenge the suspension, arguing that the officer didn’t have proper grounds for the arrest or that procedures weren’t followed. A successful challenge can prevent your license from being suspended altogether.
Alternatively, if you qualify, you can apply for an Ignition Interlock Device Limited Permit, which allows you to continue driving, typically to work, school, or medical appointments, if you install a breath-testing device in your car.
What Happens If You’re Convicted of DUI?
If you’re convicted of DUI in Georgia, license suspension becomes part of the sentencing:
- First offense: Up to 12-month suspension (with possible early reinstatement)
- Second offense (within 5 years): Minimum 3-year suspension
- Third offense: Minimum 5-year revocation and habitual violator status
Reinstatement usually requires completion of a DUI Risk Reduction Program, payment of fines, and sometimes installing an IID.
Contact Our Attorneys Today
You don’t lose your license the moment you’re arrested for DUI in Georgia, but you must act quickly to protect your driving privileges. The Spizman Firm has extensive experience helping clients navigate Georgia’s DUI laws, challenge suspensions, and protect their futures.
We proudly serve clients across Georgia, including Atlanta, Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Cobb County, Fulton County, Gwinnett County, Johns Creek, and Sandy Springs.
Source:
dds.georgia.gov/regulated-programs/ignition-interlock-provider-program
