Technically, driving is a privilege, which means the state can limit someone’s ability to legally operate a vehicle. Still, a driver’s license often feels like a necessity for adult life. People need their own transportation to get to and from work, to handle household responsibilities and to care for their dependents.
If the state suspends or revokes someone’s driver’s license, that can lead to financial hardship and daily struggles. It can be very expensive to use rideshare services, and public transportation may not be reliable. Those who drive for their work could lose out on their primary source of income if they lose their driver’s licenses.
One of the most common reasons for Wisconsin motorists to lose their licenses is a conviction for operating while intoxicated (OWI) charges. The criminal courts can revoke someone’s driver’s license in response to an impaired driving a fence. Are licensing penalties always one of the consequences of an OWI conviction?
Even first-time offenses carry licensing penalties
The penalties possible for OWI offenses increase with the number of prior charges someone has on their record. Aggravating factors that make the offense more serious can also influence the penalties possible.
Someone facing a basic first-time OWI without any aggravating factors may lose their license for between six and nine months. If testing shows that their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.15% or higher, they may also need to install an ignition interlock device for a year. Alternatively, the driver can join a 24/7 sobriety program for a full year.
If there is a minor under the age of 16 in the vehicle, a first OWI could lead to 12 to 18 months without a license. Drivers with multiple prior OWI offenses could lose their licenses for between two and three years. Those who injure others face more serious penalties, including a longer period without driving privileges. They may lose their license for up to five years after they serve any sentence of incarceration.
Those who worry about losing their licenses may want to look at their options for defending against OWI charges. A successful defense strategy can help someone preserve their driving privileges and avoid a criminal record.