There are many direct consequences of a driving under the influence (DUI) charge in Georgia, as well as a handful of secondary consequences. Jail time, fines and license suspension are some of the primary consequences imposed by the state as a reaction to someone’s DUI infraction. Secondary consequences might include higher insurance rates and challenges getting a promotion at work with a criminal record.
Licensing and insurance consequences are among the most frustrating challenges faced by those recently convicted of a DUI offense. Drivers will lose their licenses temporarily after a conviction and will need to apply to get their licenses back. In almost all cases, drivers will have to absorb the cost to install and maintain an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicles when seeking to return to the road.
When do Georgia drivers need to pay for an IID?
The courts will impose a lengthy license suspension after a DUI conviction, and drivers may struggle to handle the logistics and expenses that stem from not having independent transportation. Even a first offense could mean going a year without a license.
However, drivers can petition to regain some driving privileges as soon as 120 days after the loss of their license in some cases. Getting a license back in Georgia often means applying for a restricted or limited license. Such licenses typically only allow someone to drive a vehicle that has an IID installed.
Only after months of successful cooperation with the IID program can a motorist remove the restrictions on their license and regain their full driving privileges. Although installing an IID can seem like an expensive and embarrassing inconvenience, it does allow someone to regain their driving privileges much more quickly than would otherwise be likely. That alone can be worth the investment, as losing one’s license can mean massive expenses and possibly career setbacks.
Those who avoid a DUI conviction typically won’t have to worry about an IID requirement or other licensing penalties. Properly responding to a DUI charge is crucial for those who want to minimize the disruption that a recent arrest causes in their lives.