A barred license is a driver’s license that does not allow you to operate a vehicle legally. Only some states will bar a license. In these states, you lose your ability to drive because they have “barred” your license.
California does not “bar” a driver’s license. Our state focuses on suspending or revoking licenses after a conviction. A Los Angeles DUI lawyer can explain the differences between these restrictions.
Review the Facts About a Barred License
What is a barred license? It’s the result of some states “barring” a driver from operating a vehicle based on alleged misconduct.
As we mentioned, some states will bar your driver’s license after a traffic offense. Traffic offenses can include crimes like driving under the influence (DUI) or reckless driving. A barred license prevents a driver from legally operating a motor vehicle.
Generally, drivers only face a license bar if their state classifies them as “habitual traffic offenders.” A bar can last up to six years in states like Iowa. While a bar is in place, drivers are not supposed to operate a vehicle. Keep in mind that California does not have “barred” licenses.
What Is Driving While Barred?
Motorists engage in “driving while barred” if they operate a vehicle with a barred license. This action represents a criminal offense and can lead to fines or other penalties.
California does not “bar” a driver’s license but can suspend or revoke your driving privileges. You can face legal consequences if you drive with a suspended or revoked license under CA Vehicle Code VC 14601.1 (a) – Driving With a Suspended License.
An attorney can provide more information about these charges and answer questions like, “What is a barred license?”
License Suspensions in California
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can issue a driver’s license suspension after some criminal acts. A driver’s license suspension means a driver cannot legally operate a vehicle. Usually, these suspensions are associated with DUI charges.
However, the state of California recently rolled out a statewide ignition interlock device (IID) pilot program. This program allows drivers to continue operating a vehicle after a DUI conviction. Drivers can legally drive if they install an IID on their cars.
IIDs measure a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) level. The IID prevents a vehicle from turning on if a driver’s BAC exceeds the legal limit. Drivers have to keep an IID installed for different amounts of time in California. Drivers have to use an IID for up to:
- Six months for a first DUI conviction
- One year for a second DUI conviction
- Two years for a third DUI conviction
Drivers who get an IID-restricted license do not technically have a suspended license. They can drive as they wish as long as they use their IID. Find out more about IID-restricted licenses with a DUI lawyer in Los Angeles.
License Revocations and Criminal Charges in California
In some cases, the court or the DMV can revoke an individual’s driving privileges. A revocation of a driver’s license is more serious than a suspension. After a suspension runs out, a driver can use their license again. Drivers with a revoked license have to acquire a license all over again.
Generally, drivers only face a license revocation in serious circumstances. A driver who repeatedly breaks traffic laws could face a license revocation. Find out more about how to handle this kind of restriction by contacting a lawyer right now.
Temporary Licenses in the State of California
We should also consider temporary licenses here in California. What’s a temporary restricted license? It’s a license issued in some cases, usually after an arrest for a DUI, because police officers generally take a driver’s “normal” license after a DUI.
A temporary license allows a driver to continue to operate their vehicle for up to 30 days after a DUI arrest. Temporary licenses expire after 30 days. Note that you can acquire a temporary license if:
- A police officer gives you the license at the time of your arrest
- The DMV mails you the license after your arrest
A criminal defense lawyer can assist you if you have a temporary, suspended, or revoked license in California. Your lawyer can step in if you are facing charges for a DUI offense, often working to get your charges reduced or even dismissed.
You can count on a professional legal team to try to resolve a DUI charge out of court. However, your lawyer can also help if your case goes to trial. An attorney can stand up to the prosecution on your behalf here in California and present your defense in front of a judge and jury.
Talk with a Lawyer About a Barred License
What’s a barred license? A barred license is a kind of restricted license used in some states around the country. California uses suspended or revoked licenses instead. A Los Angeles DUI lawyer can help if you are facing the threat of a license suspension. An attorney can begin working on your defense quickly after an arrest.
You can learn more when you reach out to our team by calling or completing our online contact form.
