In Minnesota, a driver’s license can be revoked for various offenses. Needless to say, losing your license can significantly affect your daily life and your future ability to drive. In order to avoid this from happening, take a look at some common offenses that lead to the revocation of a driver’s license in Minnesota.
Different Types of License Withdrawals
There are several ways to lose your license, from temporary to permanent – let’s break them down:
Suspension – Temporary withdrawal of a person’s driving privileges. This can occur for a variety of reasons, such as accumulating too many traffic violations or failing to pay fines. A suspension typically lasts for a specific period of time, after which the driver can apply to have their license reinstated.
Cancellation – Cancellation of a driver’s license due to false information provided by the driver when applying for the license or other fraudulent activities. A person whose license is canceled will not be able to apply for a new license in that state or may be required to reapply for a license with a different name or number.
Limited License – A special type of license that is issued to drivers who have had their license suspended or revoked. A limited license typically allows the driver to drive to specific places, such as work or school, during specific hours and under certain conditions. It is usually issued as a way to help drivers maintain their livelihoods and responsibilities while they work to regain their full driving privileges.
What is a Revocation of a Driver’s License?
A revocation of a driver’s license in Minnesota is the legal process by which a state motor vehicle agency formally cancels a person’s driver’s license. A revocation refers to the permanent withdrawal of a person’s driving privileges. This can happen as a result of a criminal conviction, such as for DUI, reckless driving, certain types of traffic violations, or other reasons, such as medical conditions that affect the individual’s ability to drive safely.
Once a driver’s license is revoked, the individual must wait for a certain period of time before they can reapply for a new license, and they may be required to complete additional steps, such as passing a driving test or completing a driver’s education course, before the license is reinstated.
DUI
One common offense that can lead to the revocation of a driver’s license is driving under the influence (DUI). Minnesota has strict DUI laws, and even a first-time offense can result in a license revocation of up to 90 days. Repeated offenses can result in longer revocation periods and additional penalties such as fines and jail time.
Implied Consent Law
In Minnesota, implied consent laws state that by operating a vehicle on the state’s roads, drivers are deemed to have given their consent to chemical testing if they are suspected of driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI). This means that if a police officer has probable cause to believe that a driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they can require the driver to submit to a chemical test (such as a breath, blood, or urine test) without obtaining a warrant.
Refusing to take a chemical test in Minnesota is considered a criminal offense, and it can result in severe penalties, including fines, jail time, and license revocation. A person who refuses a chemical test will face an automatic license revocation for at least one year, regardless of the outcome of the DUI/DWI case. Additionally, the act of refusing to submit to a chemical test can be used as evidence of guilt in a criminal DUI or DWI case.
Speeding
Another offense that can lead to the revocation of a driver’s license in Minnesota is excessive speeding. If a driver is caught going more than 40 miles per hour over the posted speed limit, their license can be revoked for a minimum of six months. Additionally, if a driver accumulates too many points on their driving record due to traffic violations, their license can be revoked as well.
Other offenses that can lead to revocation of a driver’s license in Minnesota:
- Fleeing from a police officer
- Reckless driving
- Leaving the scene of an accident
- Using a vehicle in the commission of a crime
Some offenses may require the individual to complete a driver’s education course or substance abuse treatment program in order to have their license reinstated.
Reinstating Your Driver’s License
To reinstate your driver’s license in Minnesota after it has been revoked, you must follow these steps:
1. You must serve the full revocation period before you can apply for reinstatement. The length of the revocation period will depend on the reason for the revocation.
2. Depending on the reason for the revocation, you may be required to complete additional steps before you can apply for reinstatement. This could include completing a DUI program, paying fines, or providing proof of insurance.
3. You will be required to pay a reinstatement fee before your license can be reinstated. The fee will depend on the reason for the revocation.
4. You may be required to pass a driving test.
5. Provide proof of insurance.
6. Submit an application for reinstatement: Once you have completed all of the above steps, you can submit an application for reinstatement to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.
It is important to note that even after reinstating your driver’s license, you may be placed on a probationary period and may face additional penalties such as fines or community service. It is best to consult with a lawyer or the Department of Public Safety for more information.
In Summary
Overall, if you aim to avoid any type of driving penalty, it is crucial to follow traffic laws and avoid engaging in any behaviors that can lead to the revocation of a driver’s license in Minnesota. The consequences of losing your driving privileges can have a significant impact on your daily life and livelihood.
The above piece is a guest blog by Roy Lawson, a former Minnesota criminal lawyer who now offers free advice to online readers. He currently freelances with consumeropinion.org, which also gives him a platform to share his advice. In his free time, he enjoys reading and cooking for his family.
