Our Charleston DUI Defense Lawyers Can Help Get Your Driver’s License Reinstated
Last updated on March 4, 2026
In South Carolina, a DUI/DWI conviction or a breathalyzer test refusal will result in a driver’s license suspension. If you are pulled over while driving with a suspended license or driving under suspension, you may be taken to jail and face a longer license suspension. At Young & Young, Attorneys at Law, in Charleston, our criminal defense attorneys can help you get your license back.
Reinstating Your Driver’s License After A Suspension
Reinstating your driver’s license can be a lengthy process. As part of our defense for any criminal DUI/DWI charges, we can also represent you at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) administrative license hearing. As former prosecutors, we understand how the state will prepare a case against you, and identify the weak points in their case. We know when to ask questions, we know what questions we should ask and we also know the appropriate arguments to make throughout every process of your case.
Requesting A DMV Administrative Hearing
You must request a DMV administrative hearing within 30 days of your DUI/DWI arrest and/or notice of suspension. It is important that you do not miss this deadline. We can request the hearing on your behalf if you contact us right away.
Requesting A Provisional Or Hardship License
If you are convicted of drunk driving charges, your license may be suspended for six months for a first offense. There are options for a provisional driver’s license, including a Temporary Alcohol Restricted License (TARL). When appropriate, we can help you argue for a hardship license that allows you to drive on a limited basis to work, to school or to run family errands.
In South Carolina, provisional or route-restricted licenses for DUI/DUAC convictions are highly restricted, especially for offenses after May 19, 2024, which now largely require an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for driving. Previously, first-time offenders with a BAC of .14% or less could obtain a six-month, $100 provisional license, but current laws favor IID-restricted licenses.
Because eligibility rules are stricter and penalties are hefty, it is vital to seek legal guidance to help ensure compliance with current licensing requirements and protect your ability to maintain essential driving privileges.
Will You Be Required To Use An Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Many DUI convictions now require the installation of an IID before driving privileges can be restored. The device measures alcohol levels through a breath test and prevents a vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected.
Under expanded DUI laws, IID requirements apply more broadly than in previous years. Mandatory IID periods include:
- First offense: Six months with an IID, regardless of BAC level
- Second offense: Two years of mandatory IID use
- Third offense: Three years of mandatory IID use
Additionally, Emma’s Law now applies to all DUI convictions, including first-time offenses with low BAC levels, expanding IID requirements beyond earlier limits. Drivers must use a state-approved provider, such as Smart Start or Intoxalock, and comply with monitoring rules. We can help drivers meet installation standards and avoid further complications.
Reinstating Your Driver’s License After A Suspension
Reinstating driving privileges involves multiple steps and strict deadlines. Taking timely action can help restore limited or full driving rights while meeting state requirements.
The process includes:
- Administrative hearing: Request a hearing within 30 days of arrest or suspension notice to challenge the suspension or seek limited driving privileges while the case is pending.
- ADSAP enrollment: Begin the Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program within 30 days of conviction. This requirement is mandatory for reinstatement.
- SR-22 insurance: Maintain proof of financial responsibility for three years.
- IID installation: Select a state-approved provider and complete installation before driving.
- Fees and costs: Pay the $100 reinstatement fee and any additional Department of Motor Vehicles charges.
Each requirement must be completed in the proper order to avoid delays. Our lawyers can help ensure deadlines are met, paperwork is accurate and reinstatement proceeds as efficiently as possible.
License Suspension For Driving Under The Influence Of Drugs Or Excessive Traffic Violations
Your license can also be suspended if you are convicted of drug possession while in a vehicle or if you accumulate 12 traffic violation points. We represent people in all types of license suspension cases so speak with us to learn how we may help you reinstate your driving privileges.
Consult With A License Suspension Attorney For Free
Our firm offers free, initial consultation appointments. For a free consultation to discuss your license suspension, please call our Charleston office at843-619-7755or contact us online.
