CAN I DRIVE AFTER A DUI CONVICTION?
Updated: Sep 10
In Tennessee, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is regarded as a serious crime. A conviction can result in severe penalties, such as the loss of your driving privileges. The duration of losing your driver's license can extend to several years, depending on the number of previous DUI convictions you have.
HOW LONG DOES MY DRIVER'S LICENSE SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION LAST?
The length of time of your license suspension or revocation can vary based on several factors. The first factor is the number of prior DUI convictions on your record. The second factor is whether you refused to take a breath or blood test.
IMPLIED CONSENT PENALTIES
In Tennessee, implied consent laws are in effect, meaning that by driving on public roads, you are presumed to have agreed to undergo a breath, blood, or other chemical/fluid test if you are stopped under a valid suspicion of DUI. Should you decline to take a test, your driver's license will be automatically suspended, regardless of whether you are convicted of a DUI or not.
First Refusal: 1-year suspension (prior to 2026). **As of January 1, 2026, a first refusal can trigger an 18-month suspension.
Second Refusal: 2-year suspension
First Refusal Involving Injury: 2-year suspension
Second Refusal Involving Injury: 5-year suspension
DUI CONVICTION & DRIVER'S LICENSE REVOCATION
In Tennessee, if you are convicted of a DUI, your license will be revoked for a specific duration. The revocation period depends on how many prior DUI convictions you have.
Underage DUI: 1-year revocation
First Offense: 1-year revocation
Second Offense: 2-year revocation, possible seizure of your vehicle
Third Offense: 6-year revocation, possible seizure of your vehicle, ineligible for restricted license
Fourth Offense: 8-year revocation, possible seizure of your vehicle, ineligible for restricted license
After you have served the court-mandated sentence, you may apply to reinstate your license. You may have to meet certain requirements to reinstate your license, such as:
Completing drug and alcohol treatment, education programs, and ignition interlock requirements, if specified by your case.
Paying your driver's license application fees and taking your test
Providing proof of car insurance
Paying Tennessee Department of Safety fees
GET HELP WITH YOUR DUI CASE
Facing a DUI charge on your own can be daunting. Our Murfreesboro DUI attorney is ready to help you navigate the legal system and help protect your driver's license privileges. Contact the Clarke Law Firm to schedule an initial consultation. Call (615) 796-6299 now.
