Ohio Administrative License Suspensions / Limited Driving Privileges

What You Need to Know About Administrative License Suspensions in Ohio

Your Cadiz OVI lawyer will explain that, in Ohio, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is responsible for issuing license suspensions. It’s important to note that these suspensions are considered a civil punishment, not a criminal consequence, which means the criminal courts do not handle them. The BMV typically suspends licenses for two main reasons:

1. Refusing to submit to a chemical Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) test.
2. Testing above the legal BAC limit.

License Suspension Lengths for Refusing a Chemical Test

If you refuse to submit to a chemical test, the duration of your suspension will depend on your prior record. Here’s a breakdown based on past violations:

• First-time refusal: Your license will be suspended for 1 year.
• Second refusal (one prior refusal): Suspension will last 2 years.
• Third refusal (two prior refusals): Suspension increases to 3 years.
• Four or more refusals: You will face a 5-year suspension.

License Suspension Lengths for Testing Above the Legal BAC Limit

If you took the chemical test and your BAC was higher than the legal limit, the suspension length also depends on prior incidents but follows a slightly different structure:

• First offense: A 90-day suspension will be applied.
• Second offense (one prior BAC test failure): Suspension lasts for 1 year.
• Third offense (two prior BAC test failures): A 2-year suspension is imposed.
• Four or more offenses (three prior BAC test failures): Your license will be suspended for 3 years.

Appeals for Administrative License Suspensions    

You are entitled to appeal an administrative license suspension. However, this process requires urgency and adherence to strict timelines. You must submit a request for a hearing within 30 days of your arraignment, which is your initial court appearance.

Acting promptly is crucial. We strongly urge you to contact a Cadiz criminal lawyer immediately upon receiving your suspension notice from the BMV. An attorney skilled in OVI defense can represent you at your hearing and improve your chances of resolving the matter favorably.

Can I Get Limited Driving Privileges While My License Is Suspended?

It is possible to regain certain driving privileges under Ohio law, but this varies based on the circumstances of your license suspension. Limited driving privileges allow you to drive to specific locations, such as:

• Work
• School
• Court hearings
• Medical appointments

Important Note: You must only drive to and from these approved destinations.

Limited Driving Privileges for BAC Test Failures

For license suspensions due to failing a BAC test, you can request limited driving privileges after serving part of your suspension. The minimum time you must serve is as follows:

• 15 days for a 90-day suspension.
• 45 days for a 1-year suspension.
• 180 days for a 2-year suspension.
• No limited privileges are allowed for a 3-year suspension due to four or more BAC test failures.

Limited Driving Privileges for Refusing a Chemical Test

If your suspension was issued because you refused a chemical BAC test, the waiting periods are slightly different:

• 30 days for a 1-year suspension.
• 90 days for a 2-year suspension.
• 1 year for a 3-year suspension.
• 3 years for a 5-year suspension.

Why Limited Driving Privileges Matter

Losing your ability to drive can disrupt your entire life. Without transportation, you may struggle to maintain employment, attend school, care for loved ones, or access necessary medical care. Limited privileges can alleviate some of these challenges by allowing you to resume essential activities.

To increase your chances of securing limited driving privileges, consult a Cadiz OVI lawyer experienced in handling cases like yours. They understand the legal processes and requirements necessary to help you get back on the road faster.

Don’t Wait – Protect Your Future    

Losing your driving rights is just one of the serious consequences of an OVI. The ripple effects—such as losing your job or housing—can be devastating. With the help of an experienced Cadiz criminal lawyer, you can minimize these consequences and move forward with fewer disruptions.

Call Youngstown Criminal Law Group today at (330) 992-3036 and schedule a consultation. We’re here to fight for your rights and get you moving in the right direction.