How DUI License Suspension Starts in Maryland

In Maryland, license suspension often begins immediately at the roadside or police station. If a driver submits to a breath or blood test and registers a BAC of .08 or higher—or refuses testing—the officer will confiscate the physical license and issue a temporary 45-day license. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

This triggers what is known as the “administrative per se” process. The MVA does not wait for your court case. Instead, it moves forward independently to determine whether your driving privileges should be suspended.

The 10-Day Rule That Saves Licenses

After receiving an Order of Suspension, you have a critical deadline: 10 days to request a hearing if you want to continue driving until that hearing occurs. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

If you miss that window, your license will typically be suspended on day 46. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

There is still a 30-day outer window to request a hearing, but missing the 10-day deadline usually means losing your ability to drive before your case is reviewed.

Types of DUI License Suspensions

BAC-Based Suspension

If your BAC is between .08 and .15, you may face a shorter suspension. Higher BAC levels (≥ .15) typically result in longer suspensions. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Refusal Suspension

Refusing a test often results in harsher penalties than failing one. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Repeat Offender Suspension

Repeat DUI offenders face longer suspensions and mandatory ignition interlock participation. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

Ignition Interlock vs Suspension

In many Maryland DUI cases, drivers can choose ignition interlock instead of serving a full suspension period. This allows continued driving but under strict monitoring conditions.

Choosing interlock is not automatic—it must be evaluated strategically. In some cases, fighting the suspension is the better move.

Why the MVA Case Is Separate From Court

The DUI criminal case determines guilt. The MVA case determines your license.

You can win your criminal case and still lose your license—or vice versa. That’s why both must be handled aggressively.

Defending DUI License Suspension

A DUI lawyer can challenge:

• Whether the officer had reasonable grounds
• Whether the stop was lawful
• Whether the testing procedure was valid
• Whether a refusal actually occurred
• Whether BAC evidence is reliable

First Offense vs Repeat Offense Suspension

Even a first DUI offense can result in suspension, fines, and jail exposure. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

Repeat offenses dramatically increase risk, including longer suspensions and ignition interlock requirements.

FAQ: DUI License Suspension

How long is a DUI suspension in Maryland?

It depends on BAC, refusal, and prior offenses, but can range from weeks to a year or more.

Can I drive after a DUI arrest?

Yes, temporarily, if issued a 45-day license—but only if you act quickly. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

Do I need an MVA hearing?

Yes, if you want to challenge the suspension or preserve driving privileges.

Is ignition interlock required?

Not always, but often required in high BAC or repeat cases.

Can I beat a DUI suspension?

Yes, depending on the facts and evidence.