Everything You Need to Know About Temporary Licenses in Maryland
Having a driver’s license is a privilege many of us take for granted. It’s not until you get your license suspended or revoked that you realize how essential it is to be able to drive when and where you want. The law has a specific process for those waiting for an MVA hearing or DUI/DWI trial seeking to maintain their driving privileges, and this process generally entails issuing a temporary license. However, there are restrictions and eligibility requirements you need to understand to avoid any interruption of your driving privileges.
A temporary license is a document that allows you to continue driving for 45 days after having your original license confiscated by a police officer for a breath test failure or refusal. If a hearing request is returned to the MVA within 10 days, they may send you a notice extending your driving privileges until you have a hearing. During the hearing, an Administrative Law Judge (or ALJ) will determine whether you will be issued a restricted driver’s license, which would allow you to drive during your license suspension to designated places like work or school. Fortunately, The Law Office of Hillel Traub can answer any questions you may have about this process and can assist you during your legal proceedings.
What Is a Temporary License?
If you are pulled over in Maryland for suspicion of DUI, the police officer will generally ask you to take a breathalyzer. Unless you caused a car accident, you have the right to refuse. However, upon refusal, the police officer will confiscate your driver’s license and issue you a temporary paper license. This document allows you to drive 45 days or until you have a MVA hearing. This provides you the opportunity to make arrangements to live without a license for the foreseeable future.
How a DUI Defense Lawyer Can Help If You Lose Your License
DUI convictions have serious consequences in Maryland. Not only may you face large fines, jail time, and a loss of your license, but you may also have to deal with higher insurance premiums and difficulty finding employment or attending lengthy treatment programs. If you were charged with a DUI, contact an experienced Maryland DUI defense lawyer as soon as possible.
At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we can advocate on your behalf at your MVA hearing to help you avoid license suspension and fight for you in the courtroom. Possible DUI defenses, depending on the specifics of your case, may include the following:
- Contesting the validity of any breathalyzer, blood test, or field sobriety tests
- Asserting that the police officer did not have reasonable grounds to pull you over
- Arguing that the officer didn’t have the authority to test you
- Challenging any evidence against you
DUI cases may be complicated and require the experienced legal strategies of a skilled DUI defense lawyer. We can provide legal guidance and fight to protect your driving privileges every step of the way.
Speak With the Experienced Traffic Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub
If you have been arrested for a DUI in Maryland, you may be eligible for a temporary license that allows you to continue driving while you are awaiting your case. To be eligible, you are required to meet certain criteria and complete specific steps to keep your driving privileges. Working with an experienced DUI defense lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub can help you increase your chances of being granted a restricted license and fight the DUI charges against you in court.
As a former lawyer for the MVA, Attorney Hillel Traub is an aggressive litigator with a track record of proven results and over 30 years of experience. Schedule a complimentary consultation today by calling (410) 580-1100 or filling out our contact form.