Being arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or refusing to submit to a breath test can result in several consequences, including losing your driving privileges.
For a first offense, your license will automatically be suspended for seven days if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. For a second offense, your license will automatically be suspended for 60 days or until you go to trial, whichever comes first.
For a third offense, your license will automatically be suspended until you go to trial. Lastly, if you are convicted of a DUI offense, your driver’s license will be suspended in addition to other penalties.
So, how can you move around without a valid driver’s license?
Here are five options:
Use public transport
Virginia has a safe and dependable public transportation system. Thus, this can be an option if your driver’s license is suspended.
Ridesharing services
Several ridesharing apps are available on the market. You can easily find a driver online.
Walk
If you live close to work or have errands near your house, consider walking or cycling.
Carpooling
If you have friends or colleagues who are your neighbors, they can give you rides to work or other errands.
Apply for a restricted driver’s license
When your driving license is suspended due to a DUI offense, you may be eligible to apply for a restricted driver’s license. To request this license, you will submit documentation justifying why you need it to a court.
Note that courts may grant restricted driving privileges at the time of conviction for a second and third violation. Thus, this option may be limited.
It’s crucial to plan how you will move around after a DUI arrest to avoid the temptation of driving with a suspended license.