How to Get Your Drivers License Back After a DUI in Ohio

Losing your driver’s license after a DUI or OVI in Ohio can disrupt every part of your life. Without the ability to drive, getting to work, school, medical appointments, or caring for your children becomes incredibly difficult, especially if you don’t have access to reliable public transportation.

A DUI license suspension in Ohio can last six months to several years, depending on the offense and your record. Driving on a suspended license can lead to additional criminal charges, extended suspension time, and higher penalties. But you’re not without options.

With the help of an experienced Cincinnati DUI lawyer, you may be able to:

• Avoid a conviction through dismissal or reduction of charges
• Negotiate limited driving privileges to commute to work, school, or medical appointments
• Restore your driver’s license by meeting Ohio BMV reinstatement requirements

These steps may include paying reinstatement fees, completing a driver intervention program, providing proof of insurance (SR-22), or installing an ignition interlock device.

Every situation is unique. Let us help you protect your driving privileges and your future. Call Cincinnati DUI lawyer Brad Groene with LHA at (513) 338-1890 for a free consultation. We’re here 24/7.

Ohio DUI Driver’s License Penalties

Depending on the nature of your offense, when you’re convicted of OVI / DUI in Ohio, your driver’s license can be suspended or revoked for anywhere from 6 months to life. The suspension for a DUI conviction is separate from any administrative license suspension imposed because you refused to take a breath, blood, or urine test when you were arrested.

• 1st Conviction — Your driver’s license can be suspended for 6 months to 3 years.
• 2nd Conviction — Your driver’s license can be suspended for 1 to 5 years.
• 3rd Conviction — Your driver’s license can be suspended for 2 to 10 years.
• 4th or Subsequent Conviction — Your driver’s license can be suspended for 3 years to life.
• Prior Felony OVI Conviction — If you have any prior conviction for a felony OVI offense, your license can be suspended for 3 years to life.
• 1st Conviction Under 21 — Your license can be suspended for 90 days to 2 years.
• 2nd Conviction Under 21 — Your license can be suspended for 1 to 5 years.

OVI Driver’s License Points

In addition to a suspension, points are added to your driver’s license when you’re convicted of an OVI / DUI offense in Ohio. OVI is a 6-point offense unless you’re underage, in which case it’s a 4-point offense. Once you get a total of 12 points on your license, your license is suspended.

Read The Ultimate Guide to Ohio’s Driver License Point System

Limited Driving Privileges in Ohio

Under certain circumstances, your Cincinnati DUI attorney may be able to convince a court to allow you to have limited driving privileges. They’re limited in the sense that you’re restricted in where you can go or when you can travel, such as being permitted to drive from home to work and back but nowhere else. The parameters of your limited driver’s license will be up to the court, but your lawyer may be able to negotiate to get you sufficient driving privileges to minimize the disruption on your life from your DUI.

You’ll still have to serve part of your Ohio driver’s license suspension before you can get limited driving privileges. The amount of time your license is fully suspended, also known as “hard time,” before you can get a limited license depends primarily on whether you have prior OVI / DUI convictions or if you’re an underage driver. The waiting periods include:

• 1st Conviction — 15 days
• 2nd Conviction — 45 days
• 3rd Conviction — 180 days
• 4th or Subsequent Conviction — 3 years
• Prior Felony OVI Conviction — 3 years
• Under 21 — 60 days

How Long Do I Have to Keep DUI Party Plates in Ohio?

The Evolution of Ohio’s DUI Laws & Penalties

Getting Your License Back After an OVI / DUI

When your suspension period is over, you can have your driver’s license reinstated, but it’s important to know that your reinstatement isn’t automatic; a license reinstatement lawyer can help. Before the Bureau of Motor Vehicles reinstates your license, you’ll need to:

• Pay a $475 reinstatement fee
• Provide proof of insurance
• Meet any other conditions of your suspension

Frequently Asked Questions About Getting Your License Back After a DUI

How Long Will My Driver’s License Be Suspended After a DUI in Ohio?

The length of your license suspension depends on your record and the details of your offense. A first OVI/DUI offense in Ohio typically carries a suspension of 6 months to 3 years. Repeat offenses or felony OVI convictions can result in suspensions ranging from 2 years to life.

What Is “Hard Time” in an Ohio DUI Suspension?

“Hard time” refers to the period during which you are not eligible for any driving privileges after a DUI conviction. For a first offense, this is typically 15 days, but can extend up to 3 years depending on prior convictions.

How Do I Reinstate My Driver’s License After a DUI in Ohio?

To get your driver’s license reinstated after a DUI, you must:

• Complete the full suspension period
• Pay a $475 reinstatement fee to the Ohio BMV
• Provide proof of insurance (SR-22)
• Satisfy any court-mandated requirements (e.g., DUI school, treatment)

An attorney can help ensure you meet all requirements and avoid delays.

What Happens If I Drive While My License Is Suspended for DUI?

Driving under suspension (DUS) is a separate criminal offense in Ohio. You could face:

• New criminal charges
• Extended license suspension
• Fines, jail time, or vehicle immobilization Repeat violations carry harsher consequences, including felony charges in some cases.

Do I Need to Install an Ignition Interlock Device After a DUI?

Possibly. Ohio courts may order an ignition interlock device (IID) as a condition of your limited driving privileges—especially for high BAC offenses or multiple convictions. Your attorney may petition the court for or against this requirement based on your case.

Will a DUI Stay on My Driving Record Forever in Ohio?

A DUI (OVI) conviction cannot be expunged or sealed in Ohio and will remain on your driving and criminal record indefinitely. That’s why it’s so important to work with an experienced DUI defense attorney to fight the charges early.

Can I Get My License Back Early After a DUI Suspension in Ohio?

Ohio does not allow early reinstatement. However, you may qualify for limited driving privileges during your suspension period. Eligibility varies depending on your number of prior offenses and other case-specific factors.

Ready to Get Back on the Road after an OVI? Contact  LHA.

If you have been pulled over for an OVI, whether it’s your first time facing DUI charges or a subsequent time, you’re likely stressed, angry, and worried about your future. The best thing to do is to call the experienced Cincinnati DUI lawyers with Luftman, Heck & Associates. In Cincinnati, attorney Brad Groene can walk you through your legal options and begin building a defense to reduce the penalties you face. Get the justice you deserve.

Don’t hesitate to contact us today at (513) 338-1890 or email us at advice@cincinnaticriminalattorney.com. We are available 24/7.