Indiana DUI & License Suspension — What Happens

License consequences are often the most immediately disruptive part of a OWI case in Indiana. The administrative suspension is a separate proceeding from the criminal case and can result in loss of driving privileges even if the criminal charges are eventually reduced or dismissed §9-30-6-7.

• First-offense (failed test): 180 days for failed chemical test (or until court disposition, whichever is sooner); 1 year for refusal
• First-offense (refusal): 1-year license suspension; 2-year suspension if driver has at least one prior OWI

Indiana does offer a form of restricted or limited driving privileges during or after the administrative suspension. Specialized Driving Privileges (SDP) may be granted under IC 9-30-16 upon petition to the court, requiring IID installation.

The administrative suspension and the criminal case are legally independent. Winning the administrative hearing does not dismiss the criminal case. Losing the administrative hearing does not prove guilt in the criminal case. However, the facts overlap significantly, and the administrative hearing can sometimes reveal evidence or testimony that is useful in the criminal defense.

not mandatory by statute for first offense, but effectively required as condition of Specialized Driving Privileges during any license suspension; mandatory for chemical test refusal situations. The minimum IID period is minimum 6 months; duration set by the court; cannot exceed the maximum term of imprisonment that could have been imposed. Reinstatement requires proof of IID installation, completion of any required substance abuse programs, payment of reinstatement fees, and proof of insurance (SR-22 in many states).