DUI Administrative Law in Illinois
Driving is both a privilege and a necessity across most of the United States. With millions of drivers across all states and territories, laws surrounding drunk driving are necessary to keep everyone safe. Much like federal laws on the topic, the State of Illinois’ DUI laws are in place to protect travelers on local roadways, highways, and interstates.
If you’re facing a DUI conviction in the state of Illinois, then you need an experienced local attorney who can help you recover your driving privileges. Johnson & Goldrich, P.C. has helped drivers across the state get back on the road legally.
Schedule your consultation with us now to see how we can help with your DUI offense and driving privileges.
Starting The Process – License Reinstatement
Most of those who have been charged with driving under the influence or faced a DUI arrest must also wait a certain period of time before petitioning to have their driving privileges reinstated.
Once that suspension period ends, then there are several steps you must take to get your license back after a DUI in Illinois. These charges come with consequences and may require the help of a DUI reinstatement attorney. It’s also important to know more about the ins and outs of DUI administrative law before you apply for reinstatement during a formal hearing.
Let’s address the most common questions and steps required for this process below.
What is DUI Reinstatement?
In many cases, if you’re found guilty of a DUI, one of the consequences is losing your driver’s license. Unlike a suspension, your revoked license is meant to be permanent until you comply with the requirements of the Secretary of State. However, in time and under certain circumstances, you’ll be able to drive again in the future.
With this process, you will go through administrative hearings that will determine if you can get your license back. For many people, hiring a DUI reinstatement lawyer in Chicago, Illinois is your best option to get you back on the road and driving again.
Getting A License Back After A DUI – Illinois
The first step to getting your license reinstated is to hire an experienced DUI reinstatement attorney in Chicago, Illinois. The attorney is there to help you navigate the process and make sure everything is done correctly. The first step is to fill out an application with help from your lawyer. The application displays several things, including:
- Proof of alcohol and drug evaluation
- Proof of financial stability
- Completion of a treatment program
- Passing a driver’s license exam
- Fee payment
- Attend a Secretary of State hearing
While you can complete this process on your own, you increase the chances of a successful outcome when you hire an experienced DUI reinstatement lawyer, especially for the upcoming DUI administrative hearing.
How Much Does Reinstatement Cost?
Money is always an important topic when hiring a lawyer and when it comes to DUI reinstatement, we should know how much the process will cost. In addition to the cost of hiring your DUI reinstatement attorney, the cost of reinstating your license (as low as $500).
This is paid after approval from administrative hearings and requires the purchase of SR-22 insurance as well. An SR-22 is a vehicle liability insurance document that is required by most state’s Department of Motor Vehicle offices. This is considered a “high-risk” insurance policy and can cost more than your typical car insurance.
Timing Of A Driving Reinstatement
How long can it take to get your license back after it has been revoked? For the most part, the length of time it takes to reinstate your license is dependent on how quickly you complete the necessary tasks for the application. Depending on your time frame, as well as any backlog in the court system, your license can be reinstated anywhere from one to ten years after the application is complete. However, there is a specific length of time from receiving your DUI to being able to reinstate your license before you can even apply.
A first-time offense typically requires one year. Two offenses require five years, while three offenses result in 10 years. If you have a fourth offense, it’s possible to receive a permanent revocation with no chance of reinstatement.
How Much Does It Cost to Reinstate a Suspended License?
If your license is suspended, rather than revoked, you still may need the help of a DUI reinstatement lawyer in Chicago, Illinois. However, to get your suspended license reinstated, the type of DUI you receive will determine the fee you pay. For example, a first-offense DUI forces you to pay $250 to reinstate your license. Any subsequent suspensions will require $500 to reinstate your license.
Understanding Restricted Driving Permits (RDP) in Illinois
When facing a DUI-related license suspension or revocation in Illinois, you may have the option to apply for a Restricted Driving Permit (RDP). This permit allows for limited driving privileges under specific conditions, helping individuals maintain essential life activities. Below is a comprehensive overview of obtaining an RDP, eligibility criteria, and transitioning to a fully reinstated driver’s license.
How to Get a Restricted Driving Permit:
To obtain an RDP, you must first attend a formal hearing with the Secretary of State’s office. It is advisable to have a DUI reinstatement attorney to guide you through this process. The application involves submitting detailed documentation, including:
- Proof of necessity, showing that the inability to drive hinders your ability to work, receive medical care, or fulfill educational commitments.
- Evidence of completing a drug and alcohol evaluation.
- Enrollment in or completion of a treatment program.
Who is Eligible for an RDP in Illinois:
- First-time offenders: Individuals who have their license suspended due to a first-time DUI offense.
- Multiple offenders: Those with more than one DUI may still be eligible, but the requirements become stricter, and the review process more rigorous.
- Work, school, and medical needs: Applicants must demonstrate that the permit is necessary for commuting to work, school, or medical appointments.
How You Could Lose Your RDP Privileges:
RDP holders are required to adhere strictly to the conditions set forth by the permit. Violations can result in the immediate revocation of the RDP. Common reasons for losing RDP privileges include:
- Driving outside of the approved hours or routes.
- Failing a drug or alcohol test.
- Committing any driving offenses while holding the permit.
Transitioning from an RDP to a Reinstated Driver’s License:
Transitioning from an RDP to a fully reinstated license involves several steps, which must be meticulously followed:
- Compliance: Demonstrate complete adherence to all conditions of the RDP during the permit period.
- Completion of Requirements: Fulfill all remaining requirements as dictated by your initial revocation, such as continuing education and treatment programs.
- Final Review: Attend another hearing with the Secretary of State to review your case and approve the reinstatement of your full driving privileges.
Ready to reclaim your driving privileges? Contact the attorneys with Johnson & Goldrich, P.C. at (312) 795-1801 to schedule your free consultation.