License Suspension in Florida

What are the common reasons for driver’s license suspension in Florida?

1. Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
2. Accumulation of Too Many Points on License
3. Failure to Pay Child Support
4. Refusal to Submit to a Blood Alcohol Test
5. Reckless or Negligent Driving
6. Failure to Appear in Court
7. Failure to Maintain Vehicle Insurance
8. Suspension by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV)
9. Habitual Traffic Offender Status
10. Unpaid Traffic Tickets or Fines

Is there a difference between a temporary and a permanent license suspension in Florida?

Yes, there is a difference between a temporary and permanent license suspension in Florida. A temporary license suspension is usually issued by the court or the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). The suspension typically lasts for a specific period of time, and the driver must complete certain requirements before they can have their license reinstated. A permanent license suspension is more serious and is issued when the driver has had multiple violations or has committed a criminal act that requires a more severe punishment. This type of suspension is more difficult to reverse and may require a formal hearing.

How does unpaid traffic fines or tickets affect driver’s license suspension in Florida?

Unpaid traffic fines or tickets can affect driver’s license suspension in Florida by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). If a person fails to pay for a traffic ticket or citation, their driver’s license can be suspended, meaning they will not be allowed to legally drive until the ticket is paid. The DHSMV will notify the driver by mail of the suspension of their license.

What is the process for reinstating a suspended driver’s license in Florida?

1. Pay the reinstatement fee of $60. This fee can be paid in person at any local tax collector’s office or online through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles website.

2. Provide proof of financial responsibility (SR-22 insurance).

3. Complete the 4-hour Basic Driver Improvement (BDI) course if your license was suspended for certain types of traffic violations.

4. Obtain a 10-year Driving History Report, if necessary.

5. Submit all required documents to the DHSMV and pay any additional fees as required for your situation.

6. Wait for the DHSMV to process your application and issue your reinstated driver’s license.

Are there specific penalties for driving with a suspended license in Florida?

Yes, the penalties for driving with a suspended license in Florida vary depending on the reason for the suspension and the number of times you have been caught driving with a suspended license. Generally, if someone is caught driving with a suspended license they may face fines, possible jail time, and an additional period of license suspension. Additionally, it is a criminal offense and will likely result in points being added to your driving record.

Can individuals appeal a driver’s license suspension decision in Florida?

Yes, individuals can appeal a driver’s license suspension decision in Florida. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles provides a process for appealing driver license suspensions. Individuals should contact their local driver license office to obtain information regarding the appeal process.

What are the consequences of driving while under a license suspension in Florida?

If you are caught driving while under a license suspension in Florida, you may face hefty penalties, including fines, additional license suspension or revocation, and possible jail time. Depending on the circumstances, you could face a first degree misdemeanor charge which could result in up to one year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine. In addition, if you are found guilty of driving with a suspended license three or more times within a five-year period, you could face a third degree felony charge which could result in up to five years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine. If your license was suspended due to a DUI or other alcohol/drug-related offense, you will also be required to fulfill the requirements of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle’s (FLHSMV) DUI Program.

How long does a suspension typically last for various types of infractions in Florida?

The length of a suspension in Florida varies depending on the type of infraction and its severity. Generally, suspensions can range from a few days to several years. For example, a first-time DUI conviction can result in a one-year license suspension, while a misdemeanor conviction may result in a 30-day suspension. Additionally, certain traffic violations, such as reckless driving, can lead to an automatic license suspension.

Are there provisions for hardship or restricted licenses during suspension in Florida?

Yes. In certain circumstances, you may be eligible to apply for a hardship license, or restricted license, after your Florida driver’s license has been suspended. The hardship license is issued for the specific purpose of allowing you to drive for certain reasons, such as going to work or school. To be eligible for a hardship license, you must meet certain eligibility requirements set by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV).

Do suspensions vary for first-time offenders versus repeat offenders in Florida?

Yes, suspensions vary for first-time offenders versus repeat offenders in Florida. First-time offenders in Florida typically receive a lengthier suspension than repeat offenders, who may receive a shorter suspension or even probation in some cases.

Can individuals request a hearing to contest a pending license suspension in Florida?

Yes, individuals can request a hearing to contest a pending license suspension in Florida. The individual can do so by filing a Petition for Formal Review with the Division of Motor Vehicles or by requesting an informal or formal hearing with the Bureau of Administrative Reviews. Additionally, an individual can also file an appeal with the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court.

What is the role of ignition interlock devices in license suspension cases in Florida?

Ignition interlock devices (IIDs) are required for all license suspensions in Florida due to impaired driving or any alcohol-related offense, including DUI and DWI convictions. When an individual is required to install an IID, they must blow into the device at regular intervals while driving in order to prove they are not under the influence of alcohol. If registered alcohol levels are detected, the vehicle will not start. The device also requires regular data downloads that must be taken to the court or DMV to demonstrate compliance.

Is there a difference in license suspension for DUI or DWI offenses in Florida?

Yes, there are differences in license suspension for DUI and DWI offenses in Florida. For a first-time DUI conviction, the court is required to suspend the driver’s license for a minimum of six months. For a first-time DWI conviction, the court is required to suspend the driver’s license for a minimum of six months as well, but the suspension may be extended up to one year if the blood alcohol content (BAC) is .15 or higher.

How do out-of-state suspensions impact driving privileges in Florida?

Out-of-state suspensions will impact driving privileges in Florida. If your out-of-state license or privilege to drive is suspended, revoked, or otherwise disqualified, you will not be able to obtain a Florida driver’s license until the suspension, revocation, or disqualification has been cleared in the state where it was issued. You must contact that state’s motor vehicle department for information on how to clear the suspension, revocation, or disqualification.

Are there specific procedures for handling suspended commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) in Florida?

Yes, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles has specific procedures for handling suspended CDLs. First, a license holder must surrender their CDL to the DHSMV if they have been informed that it has been suspended. The license holder must then wait for the agency to issue them a confirmation of surrender. After that, the DHSMV will mail the license holder an official notice of suspension. This letter will state the reason for the suspension and any applicable reinstatement requirements. The license holder must then complete all the reinstatement requirements and pay any applicable fees to get their license reinstated.

What are the consequences for fleeing the scene of an accident involving injury or death in Florida?

In Florida, fleeing the scene of an accident involving injury or death is a felony and can result in up to 30 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. Additionally, a person’s driver’s license may be suspended for up to three years and the person may be held liable for any damages arising from the accident.

Can individuals reinstate their license after suspension due to unpaid child support in Florida?

Yes. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, individuals can reinstate their driver’s license after suspension due to unpaid child support by paying all past due payments, submitting a clearance letter from the Department of Revenue, and paying the reinstatement fee.

Do license suspensions result from non-driving offenses, such as drug convictions in Florida?

Yes, in Florida, license suspensions can result from non-driving offenses such as drug convictions. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), “Licenses may be suspended for up to five years for a variety of offenses including drug convictions or other criminal offenses.”

How do individuals regain driving privileges after a medical condition-related suspension in Florida?

In the state of Florida, individuals who have had their driving privileges suspended due to a medical condition must submit a Request for Reinstatement of Driving Privileges (HSMV 83039) to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). They must also provide all necessary documentation from their doctor that states the individual is medically cleared to drive and meet all required medical standards. The DHSMV will then review the request and documentation and decide whether or not the individual can regain their driving privileges.

What resources are available to help individuals navigate the process of addressing and potentially overturning license suspensions in Florida?

1. Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV): The DHSMV provides information on license suspensions and reinstatement requirements, as well as other resources such as forms, publications, and FAQs.

2. Legal Services of Greater Miami: Legal Services of Greater Miami provides free legal assistance to low-income residents of Miami-Dade County who are dealing with license suspensions related to traffic tickets or criminal convictions.

3. Florida State Courts Self-Help Center: The Florida State Courts Self-Help Center provides information for individuals seeking to have their license suspensions overturned, including information on how to file a motion to vacate a judgment or a motion for new trial in circuit court.

4. Lawyers.com: Lawyers.com offers a searchable database of attorneys who specialize in license suspension matters in Florida, allowing individuals to find an attorney in their area who can assist with the process of addressing and overturning their license suspension.