Driving is an essential part of daily life for many people, providing freedom and the ability to work, run errands, and maintain a social life. But in Ohio, there are laws in place that may result in a driver’s license suspension, restricting that freedom. Understanding these laws can help Ohio drivers avoid actions that could lead to a suspension and know what to do if their license is taken away. Having a driver’s license suspended means you may lose the legal right to drive, even for a short time. Knowing how Ohio’s license suspension laws work, the common reasons behind suspensions, and ways to handle them are essential for protecting your ability to stay on the road. At, Sabol & Mallory Law Firm, we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
Dan Sabol
Dan is the first attorney in Ohio to be both board certified in criminal trial law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy and be designated as a Lawyer Scientist by the American Chemical Society.
Chase Mallory
Chase Mallory is a firm founder whom has tried over 40 cases and conducted more than 100 suppression hearings. He is a founding member of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association
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Learn more about our teamTypes of License Suspensions in Ohio
In Ohio, there are different types of license suspensions, each with specific rules and reasons behind them. Some suspensions come from criminal charges, while others are a result of accumulating points from traffic violations. Each suspension has its own set of conditions that may include fines, courses, or waiting periods before a license can be reinstated.
An Administrative License Suspension, or ALS, occurs when a driver is suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If the driver either refuses to take a chemical test or fails it, the license is immediately taken away on the spot. This suspension can range from 90 days to five years, depending on the circumstances and past offenses. A court suspension can also happen when a judge orders a suspension based on a criminal conviction. These suspensions are often related to serious offenses, like driving without insurance, leaving an accident scene, or being involved in certain criminal activities while operating a vehicle.
Ohio also has a system of point-based suspensions, which means that drivers receive points on their driving record for specific violations. If a driver accumulates 12 points or more within a two-year period, their license will be suspended. The length of the suspension varies but often lasts six months. After serving this time, the driver may need to pay a reinstatement fee and possibly take a remedial driving course to regain their driving privileges.
Common Reasons for License Suspensions in Ohio
Many situations can lead to a suspended license in Ohio, and understanding these reasons can help drivers make informed decisions on the road. The most frequent causes of license suspensions include DUI/OVI offenses, driving without insurance, accumulating too many points on a driving record, and failing to pay fines or child support. Each of these causes comes with its own penalties and requirements.
DUI or OVI offenses are among the top reasons licenses are suspended in Ohio. If a driver is found driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, even for the first time, they face both an immediate suspension and additional penalties. Refusing to take a breathalyzer test when suspected of OVI will also lead to an automatic license suspension, known as an Administrative License Suspension. The period of suspension often depends on factors like prior offenses and whether the driver cooperates with the test.
Failing to maintain insurance coverage is another reason drivers lose their licenses in Ohio. The state requires all drivers to carry insurance, and proof of insurance must be shown during traffic stops or after accidents. If a driver is caught without insurance, they may face fines and an automatic license suspension. Reinstating the license may require proving that insurance coverage is now in place, paying a fee, and sometimes filing an SR-22 form with the state, which verifies that you hold continuous insurance coverage.
Drivers can also have their licenses suspended for failing to pay fines, traffic tickets, or court-ordered child support. Ohio courts take unpaid fines seriously, and when a driver repeatedly ignores these financial responsibilities, the state may enforce a suspension to encourage compliance. Addressing these fines promptly can prevent license issues, as clearing up any unpaid fees is often required to reinstate a suspended license.
How Ohio’s Points System Leads to License Suspension
Ohio uses a points system to track driving violations and determine when a driver may be at risk of losing their license. Points are assigned based on the severity of the offense, with more dangerous behaviors earning higher points. For instance, reckless driving or speeding 30 miles per hour over the limit results in four points, while more minor offenses like speeding just above the limit earn two points.
If a driver receives 12 points within two years, they face an automatic six-month suspension of their driving privileges. Once the suspension period ends, the driver must go through a reinstatement process, which can include taking a remedial driving course, paying a reinstatement fee, and sometimes taking a driving exam. The points system acts as a way to encourage safer driving by penalizing repeat offenders who show a pattern of risky driving behavior.
To avoid reaching the 12-point mark, Ohio drivers can attend approved remedial driving classes, which may reduce the points on their records. These courses are available through certain driving schools and can offer a reduction of up to two points once completed. This option is especially useful for drivers who are close to the 12-point limit and want to take proactive steps to avoid suspension.
Penalties and Consequences of Driving with a Suspended License in Ohio
If your license is already suspended, choosing to drive despite the suspension can lead to more severe consequences. Driving with a suspended license is considered a serious offense in Ohio and is usually punished with fines, extended suspension time, and even jail time in some cases. The exact penalties depend on why the license was initially suspended and whether the driver has previous violations.
In Ohio, driving with a suspended license can result in an additional license suspension period, making it even longer before the driver can legally return to the road. The driver may also face higher fines and court costs, and in some cases, their vehicle may be impounded. Repeat offenders who are caught driving with a suspended license are likely to face even harsher consequences, including mandatory jail sentences.
It is important for those with suspended licenses to understand that they may also lose any limited privileges they were granted by the court. Limited driving privileges may be available for certain individuals who need to drive for work, school, or medical appointments. But if a driver with these privileges is caught driving outside the approved terms, they will likely face an extended suspension and may lose any chance of further limited privileges.
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Chase Mallory is incredible. He is wonderful to work with and knows exactly what to do to help his clients. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you've done for me. I highly recommend hiring Chase to help fight your battles. Bless you!
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Dan Sabol is probably the best attorney I've ever worked with. Very professional and worked hard to get the best results possible. He will be the first person I call if I need a lawyer again. If you find yourself in a sticky situation make sure you give him a ring.
- Christopher R.
I had the pleasure of working with Dan and Chase and I am very grateful!! They did amazing work to help me on my case. They are very helpful and get back with you in a timely manner whenever I had questions for them, which was very nice and reassuring.
- Jessica H.
Steps to Take if Your License is Suspended in Ohio
Facing a license suspension can feel overwhelming, but there are steps Ohio drivers can take to address the suspension and work toward getting back on the road legally. The first step is understanding the reason for the suspension, as this will affect the specific requirements for reinstatement. Contacting the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) can provide clarity on the suspension type and what actions are required.
Reinstating a suspended license usually involves completing a set of conditions, which may include paying outstanding fines, attending a remedial driving class, submitting proof of insurance, or completing a waiting period. Each type of suspension has its own requirements, so completing all necessary actions is essential. Once these conditions are met, the driver will likely need to pay a reinstatement fee and provide any required documentation to the BMV before their license can be restored.
For those who need to drive during their suspension period, Ohio courts may grant limited driving privileges for specific purposes, like going to work or attending medical appointments. To qualify, drivers must petition the court and may need to demonstrate that they meet certain requirements, such as maintaining insurance coverage and fulfilling all other terms related to their suspension. Limited privileges can provide temporary relief but must be used responsibly, as violating these terms could lead to more severe penalties.
Navigating Ohio’s license suspension laws can be complex, especially when facing severe penalties or multiple suspension types. Legal assistance can make a significant difference in understanding the options available, meeting reinstatement requirements, and even challenging certain aspects of a suspension in court. Lawyers familiar with Ohio’s traffic and license suspension laws can help clients address their cases effectively, negotiate for limited driving privileges, and work toward the best possible outcome.
A suspension can impact daily life in many ways, including limiting job opportunities, affecting family responsibilities, and causing financial strain. Working with a legal professional can relieve the stress of handling a suspension alone and ensure that all legal requirements are met. Sabol & Mallory Law Firm is committed to helping Ohio drivers protect their rights and regain their driving privileges whenever possible. If you are facing a license suspension or have questions about Ohio’s suspension laws, contact Sabol & Mallory Law Firm for guidance and support in your case.