A New York DWI conviction typically results in a period of license suspension or even permanent revocation. The specific restrictions depend on the level of the DWI, the number of previous offenses and whether aggravating factors were present.
Not having your license, even for a relatively short period of time, can affect your studies, work and daily life. Depending on the circumstances, you may have options to help you restore your license.
Conditional license during revocation period
Some drivers may be eligible to participate in New York’s Impaired Driver Program, which includes completing assessment and treatment for drug or alcohol dependency. Participation can make you eligible to receive a conditional driving license.
Generally, you can only use your conditional license to drive to, from and in the course of activities the IDP approves. These typically include work, school, court-ordered classes or activities, medical appointments and transporting a child to school.
Going to an unauthorized location can cause revocation of the conditional license. Other grounds for revocation include moving violations and either alcohol or drug violations. If this happens, you can continue the IDP, but you will not be able to drive until program completion or until your license revocation period ends.
Regaining a license after revocation
If your penalties include license revocation and you do not participate in the IDP, you will need to reapply for your license after the period of revocation comes to a close. Typically, a first-time DWI conviction results in a six-month revocation. Repeat offenses or a conviction of aggravated DWI raise this period to one year. Reapplication involves everything you would need to apply for a first-time license, plus a penalty fee.
Permanent revocation
Multiple DWI convictions within a 25-year timespan can result in longer revocation periods. A high number of convictions, sometimes in addition to serious driving offenses, can cause permanent revocation. While the law allows for exceptions for unusual extenuating circumstances, fighting a permanent revocation after conviction can be challenging, though sometimes possible.