How to Reinstate Your Driver’s License After a DUI in Minnesota
If you’ve had your driver’s license suspended or revoked following a DUI conviction in Minnesota, you must complete several steps to have it reinstated. The process can be complicated, but understanding the requirements can help you regain your driving privileges as quickly as possible. Below, we outline the key steps and requirements for DUI license reinstatement in Minnesota.
Steps to Reinstate Your License After a DUI
Reinstating your license after a DUI in Minnesota involves multiple steps, and the specific requirements depend on the details of your case, including the severity of the offense and any prior convictions.
1. Complete Your License Suspension or Revocation Period
The first step is to serve the full period of your driver’s license suspension or revocation. The length of this period varies based on the number of prior DUI offenses, your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), and whether any aggravating factors were present at the time of the arrest. For example, first-time offenders typically face a 90-day suspension, while repeat offenders or those with a high BAC may face longer revocation periods.
2. Enroll in and Complete a DUI Treatment Program
Before your license can be reinstated, you are required to complete a state-approved alcohol education or treatment program. This may involve a chemical dependency assessment, followed by participation in treatment or counseling, depending on the results of the assessment. Successfully completing the program is a necessary step for regaining your driving privileges.
3. Pay Reinstatement Fees
In Minnesota, reinstating your driver’s license after a DUI comes with significant fees. You may need to pay up to $700 in reinstatement fees, in addition to any court-imposed fines from your DUI conviction. These fees must be paid in full before your license can be reinstated.
4. Apply for an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) if Required
Many DUI offenders are required to participate in the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) program as a condition of reinstatement. An IID is a breathalyzer device installed in your vehicle that prevents it from starting if you have any alcohol in your system. Drivers with a BAC of 0.16 or higher, or those with multiple offenses, are typically required to use an IID for a period of 1 to 6 years, depending on the severity of the case.
If you are required to install an IID, you must do so before you can drive again. Additionally, you will need to pay for the installation, monthly maintenance, and eventual removal of the device, which can add hundreds of dollars to the total cost of reinstating your license.
5. Submit an SR-22 Insurance Form
After a DUI conviction, Minnesota requires you to provide proof of insurance by filing an SR-22 form. This certificate of financial responsibility shows that you have the necessary insurance coverage, and your insurance company will file the form on your behalf. SR-22 insurance is typically more expensive than standard insurance, as it is required for high-risk drivers.
6. Pass the Required Tests
In some cases, you may need to pass a written exam or driving test to reinstate your license. This is more common for repeat offenders or drivers who have had their license revoked for an extended period. The written exam covers Minnesota traffic laws and the dangers of impaired driving, while the driving test assesses your ability to operate a vehicle safely.
How Long Does It Take to Reinstate Your License?
The time it takes to reinstate your driver’s license depends on how quickly you can complete the necessary steps, such as finishing a DUI treatment program and meeting IID requirements. In general, the process can take several months or even years for repeat offenders. Working with a skilled DUI attorney can help ensure you meet all the necessary requirements and avoid delays.
Why You Need a Duluth DUI Lawyer
Reinstating your license after a DUI can be a complex and costly process, but a Duluth DUI lawyer can help you navigate the system and meet all the requirements. Your attorney can ensure that you complete the necessary steps and file the correct paperwork, helping you regain your driving privileges as quickly as possible. Additionally, if there were errors or inconsistencies in your DUI case, your lawyer may be able to challenge the charges and minimize the length of your license suspension.
