In Illinois, a DUI arrest typically triggers an immediate driver’s license suspension—even before your court case is resolved. This is called a Statutory Summary Suspension and occurs if you either fail a chemical test (registering a BAC of 0.08 or higher) or refuse to take one.
For a first offense, your license is usually suspended for six months if you fail the test, or 12 months if you refuse. You may be eligible for a Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP), which allows limited driving privileges with a breath alcohol ignition interlock device (BAIID) installed in your vehicle.
If you’re convicted of DUI, your license may be revoked, meaning you’ll need to complete a formal reinstatement process with the Illinois Secretary of State. An experienced DUI attorney can guide you through hearings, paperwork, and requirements to help restore your driving privileges as quickly as possible.
