A DUI or DWI charge in Minnesota brings along a host of problems, both legal and personal. Not only could you face jail time and fines, but you could also lose your driver’s license. Most people depend on their license to get to school or work and to fulfill parenting or other family obligations. If you are facing a DUI, you need to understand what can happen to your license.
Understanding the penalties
Your penalties will depend on whether this is your first offense. Anytime you fail a blood, breath or urine test, which means a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or greater, your license will be revoked. A first offense usually results in a 90-day revocation. A second offense, a BAC of .16 or higher or a refusal to take the test may result in a one-year revocation.
Underage drinking does not depend on the amount
If you are charged with a DUI and you are under 21, the amount of alcohol in your system does not matter. You could lose your license for at least 30 days for even a minor amount of alcohol. If you are underage and you plan to drink, also plan to have a designated driver or call for a ride.
Commercial driver’s licenses and DWI do not mix
When you depend on your license for your career, you simply cannot take any chances. A DWI can mean losing your CDL for a full year, even for a first offense. Not only that, but the legal BAC limit for a commercial driver is .04. In addition, you can still lose your CDL, even if you are driving your own car rather than your commercial vehicle. The stakes are very high for commercial drivers. You could lose your livelihood for one year and jeopardize your entire commercial driving career.
You can fight for your license
The good news is that you can fight your charges and your revocation. Many people assume they have no defense against a DWI or DUI charge. That simply is not true. With the help of your attorney, you can challenge many aspects of your charge. You can also try to reduce the effect on your license by:
- Requesting a limited license for work and school
- Agreeing to an ignition interlock device in exchange for your license
- Argue for a reduced time for your license revocation
When you face a DUI/DWI, you face more than just a mark on your criminal record, which carries its own consequences. You also face a loss of transportation for work, school and family obligations. Think twice before giving up on your rights without a fight.