New Oklahoma Drivers License and DUI Laws are now in place. As of November 1, 2019, the laws regarding driver’s license requirements for those who have been arrested and charged with a DUI have changed. The new changes are significant and can make a huge difference for anyone who has been arrested. It is important for those who are arrested to understand the changes to the laws and the options they have available to them.
Previous Laws for DUI and Driver’s Licenses
There are two different times a driver’s license can be revoked after an arrest. The first is by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and is typically immediately after the arrest. The other is after a conviction. In the past, this has meant that those who were arrested for a DUI had their driver’s license automatically revoked for six months or more. If they were convicted, they would face a year or longer with a revoked license unless they were granted a modification through DPS or the courts.
Impaired Drivers Accountability Program
As of November, those who are arrested under suspicion of drunk driving can ask to enroll in the IDAP (Impaired Driver Accountability Program). When they have enrolled, they don’t have to have a hearing with DPS, and their driver’s license won’t be revoked. Instead, they’ll be required to install an interlock system in the vehicle. Drivers are eligible to enroll in the IDAP if they request the enrollment within 30 days, pay the $200 program fee within 45 days, and are not otherwise ineligible. The program does not impact whether their license will be revoked if they are convicted, however.
Drivers Can Opt-Out of the IDAP
Drivers accused of driving under the influence must choose to enroll in the IDAP program. Otherwise, they will need to request a modification to the driver’s license revocation. A failure to do either of these options will lead to having their driver’s license revoked. If they do not enroll in the IDAP or request modifications, they face between 180 days and three years with a revoked license, depending on whether they have been arrested for a DUI in the past.
Goals of the IDAP Program
The main goal of the IDAP program is to help limit the number of drivers under the influence on the road. The program offers a faster way to deal with the possibility of their license being suspended and helps to ensure they cannot drive while under the influence. After the interlock device is installed, if any alcohol is detected on the driver’s breath, they will not be able to start the car. Current research has shown that this is the most effective way to reduce the number of drivers under the influence.
New DUI Laws in Oklahoma
New Oklahoma Drivers License and DUI Laws require you to act. If you have been arrested and charged with a DUI, it’s important to act fast if you’d like to enroll in the IDAP program and avoid a driver’s license revocation. Take the time to speak with a lawyer today to learn more about all of your options and to get help enrolling.