Will I lose my license after a DUI arrest in Florida?

Possibly. Florida automatically initiates an administrative suspension, but you have 10 days to request a Formal Review Hearing and potentially stop it.

Can I get a hardship license after a DUI?

Yes. First-time offenders are often eligible for a hardship license — either after a 30-day hard suspension or immediately, depending on the circumstances.

Does the court handle the license suspension?

No. The license suspension is handled separately by the Florida DMV. You must fight it through the administrative process, not just in court.

What if I refused the breath test?

Refusing a breath test results in a longer suspension (12 months for first-time refusals). You may still qualify for a hardship license, and legal defenses are available.

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💵 Can I Keep My License After a DUI in Florida?

Last updated November 2025

🚗 DUI Arrest? You’ve Got 10 Days to Act

One of the most devastating consequences of a DUI arrest in Florida isn’t jail — it’s the loss of your driver’s license. Whether you refused a breath test or blew over the legal limit, your license may already be suspended — even before your first court date.

But here’s the good news: with fast legal help, you may be able to challenge the suspension, obtain a hardship license, or even keep driving completely.

At Michael White, P.A., we represent clients across South Florida in both DUI criminal court and the administrative license suspension process. As a former prosecutor, I know how to fight both sides — and protect your ability to drive.

⚖️ Florida’s DUI License Suspension Rules

Under Florida Statute § 322.2615, license suspensions happen administratively, separate from the criminal case.

📆 First-Time Offenders:

Breath test result ≥ .08 → 6-month suspension
Refusal to submit → 12-month suspension
Eligible for hardship license after 30 days (or immediately with waiver)

📆 Repeat Offenders:

Second refusal → 18-month suspension, no hardship license
Prior DUI conviction → Longer suspension and stricter eligibility

These suspensions are triggered immediately, unless you request a Formal Review Hearing within 10 days of arrest.

🛡️ How a DUI Lawyer Can Help Save Your License

🔹 Request and represent you at a Formal Review Hearing
🔹 Apply for a hardship license so you can work and support your family
🔹 Challenge the legality of the stop and arrest
🔹 Help you avoid a conviction (which triggers longer suspension)
🔹 Protect you from double penalties (criminal + administrative)

✅ Why Clients Choose Michael White

✅ Former Florida DUI prosecutor
✅ Aggressive DMV and court defense strategies
✅ Personalized support — not just paperwork filing
✅ Trusted by professionals, students, and commercial drivers

📞 Arrested for DUI? The Clock Is Ticking.

Don’t lose your license without a fight. Call a Fort Lauderdale DUI defense lawyer. The 10-day deadline is critical.

📲 Call (954) 270-0769 or schedule a consultation

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🧑‍⚖️ Will I lose my license automatically after a DUI arrest?

Not necessarily. You have 10 days to request a hearing and fight the suspension.

📄 What is a Formal Review Hearing?

It’s your chance to challenge the administrative suspension before a DHSMV officer. We handle the process and represent you.

🚗 Can I get a hardship license?

Most first-time offenders are eligible — sometimes immediately. A lawyer can help you apply.

⚖️ Can I avoid license suspension by beating the DUI charge?

Yes. If we get the criminal charge reduced or dismissed, your license suspension may also be lifted.

📉 Will the DMV and the court handle my case separately?

Yes. The DMV handles the administrative suspension. The court handles the criminal charge. We fight both.