🚗 How Long Is My License Suspended for a DUI in Florida?
If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Fort Lauderdale or South Florida, one of your first concerns is likely:
“How long will I lose my license?”
The answer depends on several factors—including whether you took or refused the breath test and whether it’s your first DUI offense. Here’s what you need to know about license suspensions and how to protect your driving privileges.
⏳ First-Time DUI Offenders: Suspension Timeline
In Florida, you’ll face an administrative license suspension immediately after your arrest—separate from any court-ordered penalties.
📝 Suspension Breakdown:
- Failed breath test: 30-day administrative suspension
- Refused breath test: 90-day administrative suspension
After the administrative period ends, the court may impose an additional license suspension depending on the case outcome (plea deal or guilty verdict).
✅ Good news:
First-time DUI offenders are eligible for a hardship license immediately after the court suspension.
Arrested for a DUI in Fort Lauderdale or South Florida?
🔑 What Is a Hardship License?
A Florida hardship license allows you to drive for essential purposes only, including:
- ✔ Work or job-related travel
- ✔ School or college
- ✔ Medical appointments
- ✔ Religious services
📍 In Fort Lauderdale and South Florida, hardship licenses help drivers maintain employment and basic responsibilities during suspension periods.
🔁 Second-Time DUI Offenders: Harsher Penalties
Florida law is tougher on repeat DUI offenses.
🚫 Second-time DUI means:
- No hardship license eligibility
- Court-ordered suspension of 6 to 12 months
- Higher fines and mandatory DUI school
- Potential jail time
📊 DUI Arrests in Fort Lauderdale: By the Numbers
DUI enforcement remains aggressive in Broward County and beyond.
According to FDLE, in 2023:
- 29,000+ DUI arrests occurred statewide
- ~2,200 DUI arrests were made in Broward County
- Palm Beach County reported 1,600+ DUI arrests
- Miami-Dade County led with over 3,000 arrests
⚠️ Additional stats:
- About 40% of drivers arrested for DUI in Florida refuse breath tests
- Roughly 30% of DUI arrests involve repeat offenders
💬 Frequently Asked Questions: DUI License Suspension in Florida
Q1: How long is my license suspended after a first-time DUI in Florida?
A: If you fail the breath test, your license is suspended for 30 days. If you refuse the test, the suspension increases to 90 days. Court-ordered suspensions may also follow.
Q2: Can I get a hardship license after a DUI in Florida?
A: Yes. First-time DUI offenders are generally eligible for a hardship license, which allows driving for essential purposes like work, school, and medical appointments.
Q3: What if this is my second DUI offense in Florida?
A: For a second offense, you cannot get a hardship license, and the court may suspend your license for six months to one year. You’ll also face harsher penalties, including possible jail time.
Q4: Does refusing a breath test increase my suspension time?
A: Yes. Refusing a breath test triggers an automatic 90-day administrative suspension, even for first-time offenders, and can affect your court case.
Q5: Can I challenge my license suspension after a DUI arrest?
A: Absolutely. You have 10 days to request a hearing to challenge your suspension. A DUI defense lawyer can help you fight for a hardship license or reinstatement.
👨⚖️ Trusted DUI Defense in Fort Lauderdale & South Florida
Losing your license after a DUI is serious—but you don’t have to navigate it alone.
At Michael White, P.A., we help clients throughout Fort Lauderdale and South Florida:
- Challenge administrative suspensions
- Fight for hardship licenses
- Minimize court penalties
- Build strong defenses to avoid DUI convictions altogether
📞 Call (954) 710-0925 or schedule your consultation today.
