Introduction
In Utah, one of the most serious consequences of a DUI arrest or conviction is the loss of your driving privilege. License suspension or revocation can greatly impact your daily life—limiting your ability to get to school, work, or other responsibilities. Understanding how these penalties work will help you see why driving under the influence is never worth the risk.
Administrative vs. Court Penalties
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Administrative Suspension:
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Imposed by the Utah Driver License Division (DLD) immediately after an arrest if you fail or refuse a chemical test.
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Separate from any court-imposed penalties.
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Can begin before your court date, often within 30 days of arrest.
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Court-Ordered Suspension/Revocation:
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Comes as part of a DUI conviction.
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May extend or overlap with administrative penalties.
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Typical Suspension Periods in Utah
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First DUI (BAC ≥ 0.05%):
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Minimum 120-day suspension of driving privileges.
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For drivers under 21: suspension may last until age 21, or longer if aggravated.
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Second DUI (within 10 years):
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Minimum 2-year suspension.
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Refusal to Submit to Chemical Test (Implied Consent Law):
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18 months suspension for first offense.
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36 months suspension for repeat refusal.
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Felony DUI or Aggravated Cases (e.g., involving injury, death, or child passenger):
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May result in revocation of license for extended periods, sometimes with reinstatement conditions.
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Reinstatement Requirements
To reinstate a license after DUI suspension or revocation, a driver may need to:
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Complete a DUI education or treatment program.
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Pay reinstatement fees to the Utah DLD.
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Provide proof of SR-22 insurance (high-risk coverage).
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Install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for a set time (often 18 months or longer for repeat offenders or high BAC cases).
Takeaway
Losing your license due to DUI doesn’t just mean you can’t drive—it can affect your job, education, and independence. In Utah, the laws are designed to be tough to deter impaired driving. The best choice is always clear: don’t drink and drive—ever.