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In Maryland, getting a DUI doesn’t just involve potential fines and court appearances—it often means losing your driving privileges, at least temporarily. For many people, one of the first questions after a DUI charge is: how long will I lose my license? The answer isn’t always straightforward because license suspension lengths vary depending on several factors, including whether it’s a first offense, the blood alcohol content (BAC) level at the time of arrest, and whether the driver refused to submit to testing.
This article offers a clear and informative explanation of how long license suspension typically lasts after a DUI in Maryland. It is written for readers who are looking for scope—how the penalties are applied, what ranges exist, and how the suspension periods can differ based on circumstances. This post does not offer legal advice but instead focuses on providing helpful, neutral information that reflects how Maryland’s DUI system works.
Understanding the license suspension process is important for anyone facing a DUI charge. Maryland uses both administrative and judicial systems to manage driving penalties. That means you can lose your license through an administrative process even before you appear in court. Depending on how the case proceeds, you might face overlapping or extended suspension periods.
Throughout this article, we’ll explain how these suspensions are applied, the role of the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), and the timelines that come into play. We’ll also cover how ignition interlock devices may affect your ability to drive during a suspension period.
Let’s begin with how Maryland defines the license suspension process for DUI cases.
How License Suspension Works in Maryland DUI Cases
When someone is charged with DUI in Maryland, there are two separate processes that can result in license suspension: the administrative route through the Maryland MVA and the criminal court process. Both can independently impose driving penalties, and often they happen at the same time.
Administrative suspension occurs if you either fail a breathalyzer test (with a BAC of 0.08% or higher) or refuse to take the test altogether. In these cases, the arresting officer issues an Order of Suspension and takes your driver’s license on the spot, giving you a temporary license that’s valid for 45 days. You have the right to request an administrative hearing during this time.
Separately, if you’re convicted in court for DUI, the judge may impose an additional license suspension as part of the criminal sentence. This court-ordered suspension can overlap with the administrative action but may also be longer, especially for repeat offenses or high BAC levels.
The Maryland MVA handles both immediate suspensions and long-term license consequences. As a result, understanding how long a license suspension will last depends on whether you’re dealing with administrative penalties, criminal penalties, or both.
License Suspension Length for First-Time DUI Offenders
For individuals facing their first DUI offense in Maryland, the license suspension period can vary depending on the BAC level and whether they agreed to a breath or blood test. Here are the general guidelines:
- BAC of 0.08% to 0.14%: 180-day license suspension
- BAC of 0.15% or higher: 180-day license suspension (plus ignition interlock eligibility or requirement)
- Refusal to take a test: 270-day license suspension
These penalties are part of the administrative sanctions and apply even before the case is heard in court. If you are convicted in court, the judge may impose additional restrictions, including longer suspensions or conditions like the ignition interlock program.
First-time offenders may also be eligible for the Ignition Interlock Program, which allows individuals to continue driving under certain conditions instead of serving a full suspension. However, this option depends on the specifics of the case, including whether the person refused testing or had a particularly high BAC.
In most cases, the MVA also assigns points to your driving record, which can have lasting effects on insurance premiums and future driving privileges.
Suspension Periods for Repeat DUI Offenders in Maryland
Repeat DUI offenses lead to more serious consequences in Maryland, especially when it comes to license suspension. The MVA and courts increase penalties for those with prior convictions or suspensions within the past five years.
Here’s how the suspension lengths increase for repeat offenders:
- Second DUI offense: 1-year license suspension (MVA), plus court-imposed restrictions
- Third DUI offense or more: Suspension of up to 18 months or longer, depending on case severity
Repeat offenders are often required to participate in the Ignition Interlock Program as a condition for reinstatement. This program typically lasts 1–3 years, depending on the offense history.
In addition, individuals with repeat offenses may face revocation rather than suspension. This means their license is canceled, and they must apply for a new one after completing all penalties and program requirements.
Maryland takes repeat offenses seriously, and both the MVA and judicial system apply harsher consequences to discourage recurring violations.
The Role of the Ignition Interlock Program in License Reinstatement
The Maryland Ignition Interlock Program allows eligible drivers to regain limited driving privileges after a DUI offense by installing a breathalyzer device in their vehicle. The device requires the driver to blow into it to confirm sobriety before the engine will start.
Participation in this program can reduce or replace suspension periods in certain cases. Here’s how it generally works:
- First-time offenders with a BAC of 0.15% or higher: Eligible for interlock instead of full suspension
- Refusal to take a chemical test: May opt into the interlock program in exchange for a longer participation period
- Repeat offenders: Often mandated to participate as a condition of reinstatement
Once enrolled, participants must comply with all program rules, including regular maintenance checks and no recorded violations. Any attempt to bypass or tamper with the system can result in removal from the program and full suspension reinstatement.
While the Ignition Interlock Program does not eliminate all consequences, it provides a path for individuals to continue working or caring for family responsibilities while serving out their penalties.
How to Reinstate Your License After a DUI Suspension
Reinstating a suspended driver’s license in Maryland involves several steps and depends on the specific details of your DUI case. Once the suspension period ends, drivers must take action to restore their legal ability to operate a vehicle.
Steps generally include:
- Completion of suspension period: The full administrative or court-ordered suspension must be served unless modified by the interlock program.
- Payment of reinstatement fees: These are required by the Maryland MVA and vary based on offense history.
- Proof of program completion: If you were ordered to attend alcohol education, treatment, or ignition interlock, you must provide evidence of completion.
- Application for reinstatement: A formal request must be submitted to the MVA to regain license status.
- Driving test (in some cases): If your license was revoked, you may need to pass written and driving tests again.
Drivers should also ensure that any outstanding fines or legal obligations are resolved before applying for reinstatement. Unresolved issues can delay the process.
Reinstatement is not automatic. Drivers must be proactive in meeting all state requirements to get their license back.
Administrative vs Judicial License Suspensions
Maryland distinguishes between administrative and judicial suspensions, and understanding the difference can help individuals track how their driving status is affected during and after a DUI case.
- Administrative Suspension: Handled by the MVA. Triggered by a failed or refused BAC test at the time of arrest. This suspension begins quickly—often within days—and is imposed regardless of court outcomes.
- Judicial Suspension: Ordered by a judge upon conviction in criminal court. This can add to the duration of an existing administrative suspension or impose new conditions.
For example, a driver might receive a 180-day administrative suspension immediately after arrest, and then an additional suspension period if convicted in court. These suspensions may overlap or run consecutively depending on the specifics of the case.
You can request a hearing to challenge the administrative suspension, but strict deadlines apply. Understanding both systems is crucial for managing your ability to drive following a DUI charge.
FAQ About DUI License Suspensions in Maryland
How long is your license suspended for a first DUI in Maryland?
Typically 180 days if your BAC is between 0.08% and 0.14%, or 270 days for a test refusal.
Do suspensions increase for repeat offenses?
Yes. Second offenses often result in 1-year suspensions, while third offenses may lead to 18 months or revocation.
Can I drive during my suspension?
You may be eligible for the Ignition Interlock Program, which allows limited driving during the suspension period.
What happens if I refuse the BAC test?
Refusal triggers an automatic 270-day suspension for a first offense and longer for repeat offenses.
Is court-ordered suspension separate from the MVA suspension?
Yes. You may face additional license loss if convicted in court, separate from the administrative penalties.
Can I get my license back before the suspension ends?
Only if you qualify for early reinstatement through the Ignition Interlock Program or a successful hearing.
Is reinstatement automatic after the suspension period ends?
No. You must apply for reinstatement and meet all state requirements, including fees and documentation.
Conclusion
License suspension after a DUI in Maryland varies based on the offense details, including BAC levels, test refusal, and repeat offenses. First-time offenders typically face 180–270 days of suspension, while repeat violations lead to longer durations and potential revocation. Understanding the administrative and judicial processes—as well as options like the Ignition Interlock Program—can help individuals navigate what happens to their driving privileges after a DUI.
To learn more about the full range of DUI penalties and consequences in Maryland, or to explore specific details about license suspension and driving restrictions after a DUI, visit the linked pages for a complete breakdown.