Can I Get My License Back Early After a Suspension for a DWI in New York?

After being convicted of a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) or DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) in New York, your license and driving privileges will be taken away for a period of time. In general, you can never get your license back early after being issued a suspension for a DWI. For more information on your rights and options, speak with a New City DWI defense attorney today.

How Long Will My License Be Suspended for a DWI in NY?

The amount of time your license will be suspended for after receiving a DWI in New York varies depending on the details of your conviction. In general, the license suspensions associated with each type of intoxicated driving offense are as follows.

• DWAI-alcohol: 90 days
• DWI or BAC of .08 or greater: 6 months
• DWAI-drug: 6 months
• Second offense DWAI: 6 months
• Aggravated DWI, BAC of .18 or greater, or with a child 15 years or younger in the vehicle: 1 year
• Second offense DWI or DWAI-drug: 1 year

Can I Get My License Back Early After a DWI Suspension?

In short, no, you cannot get your license back early after receiving a suspension for driving while intoxicated. If you are granted a conditional driver’s license then you may be able to operate a vehicle during the period of suspension under certain conditions, like commuting to and from work or medical appointments. However, if you do not qualify for a conditional license then you must wait the entirety of your suspension period before you can be reinstated.

How Can I Get My License Back?

If you wish to get your license back after having it suspended for a DWI you must meet certain conditions. Consider the following ways to reinstate your license.

1. Serve your suspension: Before applying to get your license back you must first wait out the suspension period. There is no way to shorten your suspension and driving with a suspended license can result in even more consequences.
2. Complete your jail sentence: If you were sentenced to jail as a result of your DWI you must complete your sentence before you can apply for license reinstatement.
3. Attend DWI school: You will likely be required to attend DWI driving lessons as a part of your sentence. The programs generally last anywhere from 3 to 30 months depending on the court order. Complete your program in its entirety and receive a Notice of Completion.
4. Fulfill all conditions of your conviction: Besides jail, suspension, and DWI school, you may be required to pay fines or restitution, complete community service, etc. Complete all conditions of your conviction before applying for license reinstatement.

Once you have completed all of the terms of your sentence, you can apply for reinstatement online or through the mail. If you have questions regarding your rights and options for getting your license back, reach out to an experienced New York attorney for skilled advice and legal counsel.