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Understanding License Suspension After an OWI in Michigan
In Michigan, an OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) conviction can have immediate and long-term effects on your ability to legally drive. One of the most common and impactful penalties is the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. But how long does that suspension last? The answer depends on several key factors, including whether it’s a first or repeat offense, your blood alcohol content (BAC), and any prior OWI-related incidents on your driving record.
License penalties in Michigan are handled through both criminal courts and the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS), which means a driver may face administrative actions like suspension or revocation even before court sentencing. Each case is different, but knowing the typical license consequences for each type of offense helps clarify what to expect.
This article explains the scope of license suspension and revocation after an OWI conviction in Michigan. It outlines the timelines for first, second, and third offenses, details the distinction between suspension and revocation, and describes additional restrictions drivers might face even after regaining driving privileges.
First Offense OWI: Suspension Periods and Conditions
For a first OWI offense in Michigan, the license penalty depends on the specific charge and BAC level. There are generally two paths: OWI or OWVI (Operating While Visibly Impaired), and each comes with different outcomes.
- OWVI (Visibly Impaired)
- License Restriction (not full suspension): 90 days
- May drive only under certain conditions (e.g., to work or treatment)
- OWI (BAC 0.08%–0.16%)
- License Suspension: 30 days
- Followed by license restriction: 150 days
- Total time with limited or no driving: 180 days
- Points added: 6 points on driving record
- OWI with High BAC (0.17% or higher)
- License Suspension: 1 year
- Eligible for restricted license after 45 days if a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) is installed
The state may also require completion of alcohol education, substance use evaluation, or community service as part of the overall penalty. In some cases, these requirements can affect the timeline for regaining full license privileges.
Second OWI Offense: Extended Suspensions and Mandatory Revocation
Michigan law treats second OWI offenses more severely, especially if they occur within 7 years of the first. Instead of a simple suspension, a second offense typically triggers a mandatory license revocation.
Here’s what that looks like:
- License Revocation: Minimum of 1 year
- If there was a prior revocation within 7 years, revocation period increases to 5 years
- No automatic reinstatement – drivers must apply for reinstatement through a formal process
This revocation means a driver loses all driving privileges and must wait out the minimum period before even requesting a hearing to restore them. During this time, no restricted or hardship license is allowed. The only way to drive again is through a successful appeal to the Michigan SOS.
This process includes an administrative hearing, substance abuse assessment, and evidence of sobriety and lifestyle changes. Reinstatement is not guaranteed.
Third OWI Offense or Felony OWI: Lifetime Impact on License
A third OWI offense in Michigan is classified as a felony. The license consequences reflect the seriousness of the charge, with longer revocation periods and stricter reinstatement conditions.
- License Revocation: Minimum of 5 years, if prior revocation occurred within 7 years
- Otherwise, standard revocation is 1 year, but felony status may lead to more cautious reinstatement reviews
- No restricted license available during revocation period
- Reinstatement process includes a full SOS administrative hearing, strict sobriety evidence, and potential BAIID requirements
For felony OWI cases, license consequences are only one part of the overall impact. However, the extended revocation period makes it clear that Michigan law treats repeat offenses with long-term restrictions on driving privileges.
License Restrictions vs Full Suspensions in Michigan
It’s important to understand the difference between a license suspension, license restriction, and license revocation in Michigan:
- Suspension means your license is temporarily invalid. After the suspension period, reinstatement is possible by paying a fee.
- Restriction allows limited driving for specific purposes (work, school, treatment, etc.). Often follows suspension or is applied to OWVI offenses.
- Revocation completely terminates your driving privileges. Reinstatement is not automatic and requires a hearing and formal approval.
Even when a license is reinstated after suspension or revocation, drivers may face ongoing restrictions such as mandatory BAIID use or continued substance testing. These measures are intended to ensure safety before full privileges are restored.
Ignition Interlock Requirements for High BAC Offenders
For those convicted of High BAC OWI in Michigan, one major condition of regaining limited driving privileges is the installation of a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID). This device prevents a vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on the driver’s breath.
Key points:
- Required after 45-day suspension for first High BAC offense
- BAIID must be installed and monitored through an approved vendor
- Violation of BAIID requirements can result in re-suspension or revocation
- Cost and maintenance are the driver’s responsibility
Drivers must also keep a clean driving and testing record while using the BAIID. Any violations are reported to the Secretary of State and can delay reinstatement or result in additional penalties.
Restoration of Driving Privileges After Suspension or Revocation
Getting your license back after an OWI-related suspension or revocation is not always automatic. In Michigan, the process depends on the type of penalty:
- Suspension: Ends automatically after the period is over, but requires a reinstatement fee (usually $125)
- Revocation: Requires a Driver’s License Appeal Hearing, where the driver must prove:
- At least 6–12 months of sobriety
- Completion of recommended treatment
- Stable, supportive lifestyle
- Clean criminal and driving record
If the appeal is successful, a restricted license with a BAIID may be granted. After another year, drivers may request full reinstatement, again subject to SOS approval.
This process ensures that only those who demonstrate clear behavioral change can regain unrestricted driving privileges.
FAQ: Common Questions About License Suspension After OWI in Michigan
How long is my license suspended for a first OWI in Michigan?
A first OWI typically leads to a 30-day suspension followed by 150 days of restriction. High BAC offenses trigger a 1-year suspension.
Can I get a restricted license during my suspension?
In many cases, yes. For example, after 30 days of suspension, you may be eligible for a restricted license if conditions are met.
What if it’s my second OWI offense?
Your license will likely be revoked for at least 1 year, and you must go through a formal appeal to have it restored.
Does every OWI result in license suspension?
Most do. Even OWVI charges lead to restricted driving. The only exceptions are certain plea deals or dismissals, which vary by court.
Can I drive with a BAIID after a High BAC OWI?
Yes, but only if you meet state requirements and complete the initial 45-day hard suspension period.
What happens if I drive on a suspended or revoked license?
Driving during a suspension or revocation can lead to additional criminal charges, extended suspension time, and possible jail.
Conclusion: What Michigan Drivers Should Know About OWI License Penalties
In Michigan, license suspension and revocation are common penalties for OWI offenses, and the length of these restrictions depends on your offense history and BAC level. First offenses may result in a short suspension or restriction, while repeat or high-BAC offenses lead to longer revocations with stricter reinstatement conditions. The distinction between suspension and revocation—and the importance of reinstatement procedures—makes it essential to understand your legal and administrative status after an OWI.
To explore how license loss fits into the larger picture of OWI consequences, visit our guide on DUI penalties and consequences. For more detail on limited driving, BAIID requirements, and restriction periods, see our full page on license suspension and driving restrictions after a DUI.