If your license has been suspended as a result of a DUI or DWI charge in Paramus, Hackensack, or anywhere in Bergen County, you may wonder how to apply for a conditional or hardship license. While many states offer these restricted licenses for those with a suspended license to travel to work, school, medical appointments, or court-ordered programs, the state of New Jersey does not offer hardship licenses. As such, understanding your options is critical, especially if you need to commute to work or other responsibilities.
Does New Jersey Offer Hardship or Conditional Licenses?
New Jersey does not offer hardship or conditional licenses to any of its residents following a DUI-related suspension. Once you lose your driving privileges, whether from a DUI conviction, refusal to submit to chemical testing, or other traffic violations, you cannot drive under any circumstances.
While many states offer their residents conditional licenses to travel under certain circumstances, like school, work, or medical appointments, those in New Jersey with a suspended license will find their driving privileges completely revoked for the duration of their suspension.
New Jersey Suspended License Overview
- New Jersey does NOT offer hardship licenses
- New Jersey does NOT offer conditional or restricted licenses
- You cannot drive on a suspended license, regardless of whether it’s for work, school, or emergencies
- Driving while your license is suspended will result in additional consequences
- Restoration must be complete before your privileges are reinstated
What Is a Hardship or Conditional License in Other States?
A hardship or conditional license is a restricted license given to a driver whose license has been suspended or revoked as a result of an alcohol or drug-related issue, permitting drivers who qualify for it to drive again under specific conditions set on the license and issued by the court.
How Hardship Licenses Typically Work in Other States
In states that permit hardship or conditional licenses for those with a suspended license, they typically work in the following manner:
- Permit driving to only specific destinations, like school, medical appointments, work, or court-ordered programs
- Proof of hardship is required
- Installation of an ignition interlocking device may be required
- Drivers must adhere to strict limitations on driving, such as when they are permitted to travel and the route they must take
- Violations can result in the full revocation of driving privileges
What Happens After a DUI License Suspension in New Jersey?
If your license is suspended following a Bergen County DUI, it’s important to understand that the penalties you can face will depend on a number of factors, including whether or not you have previously been convicted of a DUI offense and your Blood Alcohol Concentration at the time of the offense. In general, however, license suspension is mandatory under N.J.S.A 39:4-50.
Potential DUI License Consequences
- First Offense:
- License suspension (will vary based on BAC)
- Fines and court costs
- Ignition interlocking device requirement
- Second-Offense:
- Multi-year suspension
- Mandatory ignition interlocking device installation
- Potential for jail time
- Third-Offense:
- Extended suspension
- Increased fines
- Mandatory time behind bars
What Are the Penalties for Driving With a Suspended License in New Jersey?
It’s important to understand that driving while your license is suspended in New Jersey is a criminal offense in and of itself. As such, if you are caught driving while your license is suspended, you can face serious legal consequences on top of the DUI offense you are facing, in accordance with N.J.S.A 39:3-40.
Penalties for Driving While Suspended
- First Offense:
- Fine of up to $500
- Increase suspension period by 6 months
- Second Offense:
- Up to five days in jail
- Up to $750 in fines
- Additional suspension period
- Third Offense:
- Mandatory minimum of 10 days in jail
- Fines increase to $1,000
- Increased suspension period
Is There Any Way to Legally Drive During a New Jersey DUI Suspension?
While New Jersey does not offer conditional licenses, certain individuals may be able to obtain limited relief based on the unique circumstances of their case.
Situations That Can Impact Driving Privileges
- Successfully challenging a DUI charge in court
- The dismissal or reduction of DUI charges
- Compliance with ignition interlocking devices when applicable
- Participation in certain divisionary programs
- Completion of the suspension period and formal restoration
How Can a Bergen County DUI Attorney Help Protect Your License?
With the assistance of a qualified legal professional, you can feel more confident knowing that your rights and future will be protected. Your attorney can use the following strategies to help you combat your charges:
- Issuing motions to suppress evidence from the traffic stop due to a lack of probable cause
- Suppressing breath test results that allegedly establish your intoxication
- Removing your statements regarding alcohol or drug use
- Raising reasonable doubts about the admissibility of any and all evidence
Contact Our Experienced Bergen County DUI Law Firm Today
At the Law Office of Carl Spector, we understand the impact a DUI can have on your life, especially as it inhibits your ability to get to work, school, or the mandatory programs you must participate in as per the court. As such, it is in your best interest to contact our firm to learn about your legal options. Connect with us today to learn how we can represent you during these difficult times.