Drivers License Suspension for Drug Possession Crimes

A judge can hand you a suspended license for possession of marijuana if your state’s law authorizes the suspension. A few years ago, many states began implementing legislation to allow for the suspension of drivers licenses, even if the person charged never used a vehicle.

Two main policy concerns are used to justify suspension. The first is that if you have a license and you have a drug addiction problem, then you will probably drive while under the influence at some point, thereby endangering others. Essentially, the idea is to proactively prevent future crimes. The second policy concern is more punitive. While most states will characterize the suspension as “administrative,” the intended effect is to punish and scare those who used drugs into compliance by threatening to take their license.

Some states authorize judges to issue license suspensions on a discretionary basis. If this is the case in your jurisdiction, you may be able to demonstrate a hardship and ask the judge to modify the terms of your conviction or probation order. Other states authorize your state’s licensing agency to automatically revoke your license once they receive notice of the conviction. This is generally mandatory and non-discretionary.

Occupational Driving Exception May Be Available

Even if you live in a state with a mandatory suspension requirement for drug-related offenses, you may be able to get relief. Some states permit a defendant convicted of certain drug offenses to apply for a hardship, or occupational, driver’s license. Essentially, you ask the court for permission to operate a vehicle for purposes related to your employment. This may be particularly available if you have a commercial license and driving is your occupation.

Your state’s law will control where you can file for an occupational license. Usually you must file your request in the county where you were convicted or the county where you live. Once the judge hears your motion, they have the discretion to either accept or deny your request. If they accept your request, then they will issue an order allowing you to get an occupational license, but with certain restrictions. Restrictions will likely include when and where you are authorized to drive.

Before you enter your plea, you need to discuss the consequences of your suspended license with your attorney. If your license is your livelihood, you may want to discuss the possibility of plea bargaining to a different charge that does not invoke your state’s automatic suspension rules.

Contacting an Attorney

Until you get permission to drive, you should refrain from driving while your license is suspended. Doing so will result in yet another charge and further suspension. In the meantime, contact an attorney to advise you of the procedures for applying for reinstatement of your license.

Case Studies: Driver’s License Suspension for Drug Possession Offenses

Case Study 1: John’s Battle to Prevent License Suspension

John, a resident, found himself in a situation where his driver’s license was at risk of suspension due to a drug possession charge. Despite never utilizing a vehicle, the local legislation allowed for such suspensions as a preemptive measure against future offenses. To understand his legal options and minimize the potential impact on his life, John sought professional assistance.

Case Study 2: Sarah’s Request for an Occupational License

Sarah, a commercial driver, faced the automatic suspension of her license following a drug-related offense. However, the local authorities provided the opportunity to apply for an occupational license, primarily designed for work-related driving purposes. Sarah filed a motion in court, emphasizing the importance of her occupation and the necessity of limited driving privileges to support her livelihood.

Case Study 3: Joe’s Strategy for Plea Bargaining

Joe, confronted with a suspended license due to drug possession charges, sought counsel from his attorney to evaluate the potential repercussions on his livelihood. Recognizing the criticality of his license for his profession, Joe explored the possibility of plea bargaining to a different charge that would not trigger an automatic suspension. The assessment suspended license became paramount in Joe’s case.