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How many DUIs can you have before you lose your license?
In Florida, it’s illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or other chemical substances. Driving under the influence (DUI) can result in serious legal consequences, including revoking your driver’s license.
While many drivers believe that multiple DUIs are required to lose their license, the truth is that a single DUI conviction will lead to the loss of your driver’s license under Florida law. The exact length of the revocation period varies depending on the unique circumstances of the offense.
If you need help determining how long your license will be revoked after a DUI, call (321) 425-8961 to speak to a DUI attorney in Orlando, FL.
Suspension vs. revocation
There are two ways to lose your driver’s license in Florida: suspension and revocation. A suspension is a temporary loss of your driving privileges. Upon completion of the suspension period, you can apply for reinstatement of your existing driver’s license.
In contrast, revocation is the permanent termination of your driving privileges under your existing driver’s license. The only way to fully regain your driving privileges after revocation is to seek a new driver’s license as if you were applying for a license for the first time.
After you’re arrested for DUI, you’ll face an automatic 6-month administrative suspension of your license if you took the breath test and blew over a .08. If you refused the breath test then you will face a 12-month suspension.
During the first 10 days of the suspension period, you can challenge the suspension with the DMV. If you can present strong evidence that there were errors in your arrest, or in the administration of the breath test, you may be able to regain your full driving privilege until your criminal case is resolved. If your trial ultimately results in a conviction, your driver’s license will be suspended by the court.
How long does a license suspension last?
| Offense | Length of revocation |
| First-time DUI without bodily injury | 6 months to 1 year |
| First-time DUI with serious bodily injury | 3-year minimum |
| Second DUI within 5 years | 5 years |
| Second DUI (more than 5 years since last conviction) | 6 months to 1 year |
| Third DUI within 10 years of second conviction | 10-year minimum |
| Third DUI (more than 10 years since last conviction) | 6 months to 1 year |
| Fourth and subsequent offenses | Permanently revoked |
| DUI manslaughter | Permanently revoked |
Hardship reinstatement may be available
Once you’ve been convicted of a DUI, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) will notify you that your license has been revoked and will specify the length of the revocation period.
You’ll also be notified of your right to request a hardship reinstatement, which allows the FLHSMV to restore restricted driving privileges — such as driving for work purposes — without a full reinstatement of your driver’s license.
Reach out to an attorney for assistance
If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Florida, it’s important to take immediate steps to protect your driving privileges. An experienced attorney can help you challenge any administrative suspensions and explore the possibility of hardship reinstatement so that you may continue driving while your case is pending.
They can also mount a compelling defense against your DUI charge to reduce your odds of facing other penalties, such as fines or jail time.
Katz & Phillips, P.A. is a criminal defense law firm with extensive experience in DUI cases throughout the state of Florida. In fact, David Katz and James Phillips are two of only four board-certified* DUI defense experts in Florida. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let our board-certified* DUI defense lawyers protect your rights.
Decades of Trusted Service. Hundreds of Grateful Voices.
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“David Katz sets the standard by which all other defense attorney's must measure. He not only knows his craft and has the experience to back it up, he relishes forcing his opponents to follow the law towards the best outcome for his clients.”- Karate K.
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“Christine Vazquez took on our case with a 24hr commitment. She put everything on the line to hold the judicial system accountable.”- Phil W.
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“I can’t thank attorneys Christine Vazquez and David Katz enough for the incredible job they did on my DUI case.”- Gabriel H.
Why Hire Katz & Phillips?
Some important reasons to secure experienced representation include:
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Board-Certified* Attorneys
Our founding attorneys are two of three board-certified* DUI defense lawyers in the state.
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Former Prosecution Experience
As former prosecutors, we bring an invaluable perspective and skillset to every case.
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High Success Rate in Criminal Defense
With a 90%+ success rate, our proven track record of success speaks for itself.
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Decades of Experience
With more than 10,000 cases handled, our advocates are well versed in criminal law to help you navigate your case with care and efficiency.
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Always Responsive
Our team is available to take your call and address any questions or concerns you have.
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Financing Available
The last thing you need during a criminal case is financial stress. Our firm offers financing with no credit check required.
Meet Your Dedicated Defense Team
Led by two of Florida's Board-Certified* DUI Experts, Our attorneys bring together more than 50 years of success, defending clients across Florida against criminal and DUI charges.
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DUI Charges Reduced
The court deemed all other conditions satisfied so M.A. did not have to go on probation at all and walked out of courthouse with a fine and fees to pay, and the case behind her.
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Case Dismissed
J.A.R. had had a previous DUI conviction and was facing mandatory jail time if convicted of this offense. In reviewing the discovery provided by the state, our team found several issues with the police investigation, and realized that our clients’ rights had been violated.
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All Charges Dropped
In reviewing the evidence provided by the State our team realized that T.R.’s rights had been violated when she was immediately illegally arrested by the Trooper. Further, there were many other errors made by the Trooper which would result in the evidence gathered being suppressed.
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All Charges Dropped
In this case, our client, R.H., was out with friends. A family member who was angry with him tracked his location by tracking his cell phone, called the police, told them he was very drunk, and led the police right to his car. The officers stopped his car and eventually arrested him.
Our Case Results
Two of Florida’s only Board-Certified* DUI Defense experts fighting for you.
- DUI Charges Reduced
- Case Dismissed
- All Charges Dropped
- All Charges Dropped
