Can I Drive on a Suspended License After a DWI in North Carolina?

When you hear the phrase “suspended license,” you might assume that its meaning is self-explanatory. If your license is suspended because you were convicted of a DWI in North Carolina, driving is out of the question… right? As it turns out, you may still have the right to drive even with a suspended license after a DWI. To learn more about how this might work, consider contacting a DWI defense attorney in North Carolina. 

How Limited Driving Privileges Work After a DWI Conviction in North Carolina

The North Carolina Department of Transportation states that under certain circumstances, drivers with suspended licenses may be eligible for “limited driving privileges” (LDP). The Department of Transportation also refers to this as a “limited driving permit.” However, this right does not extend to everyone with DWI convictions. 

The goal of limited driving privileges is to help you continue with your life. With LDP, you may have the right to drive to your workplace, school, community center, hospital, or substance abuse treatment center. You may also have the right to drive to your place of worship or your local grocery store. Thanks to these wide exemptions, you should be able to use your vehicle for everything you need (but not for recreational purposes). 

Note that if you were driving on an invalid driving license at the time of your DWI conviction, you are not eligible for LDP. You also need valid insurance to get LDP. Many DWI defendants get LDP, and an experienced DWI attorney may be able to help you achieve this goal. 

Note that if you have not yet been convicted of a DWI, you may still be eligible for LDP. With pre-trial driving privileges, you can continue with your life and carry out important errands before your trial date. 

You May Need an Ignition Interlock Device

Depending on the nature of your conviction or charges, you might also need to install an ignition interlock device. This device effectively requires you to carry out a breath test each time you drive, ensuring that you’re not intoxicated behind the wheel. Aside from your ignition interlock device, you will also need to comply with other LDP restrictions, which may vary on a case-by-case basis. 

Can My Defense Attorney Help Me Get LDP?

While LDP is common, it is not guaranteed. Your lawyer may need to help you convince the judge that you are not a risk to the public and that granting you driving privileges will not lead to additional DWI incidents. 

Can a DWI Defense Attorney Help Me?

A DWI defense attorney in North Carolina might be able to help you win back your driving privileges, even if you already have a DWI conviction on your record. Depending on your circumstances, it may be possible to use your vehicle for work, school, and other places. For more information, contact Coastal South Law today.