What to Expect and How to Stay on the Road in Idaho
Getting arrested for DUI can feel like everything is spiraling. You’re probably stressed, worried, and unsure of what to do next, especially when it comes to your driver’s license.
If you’re facing a first-time DUI in Boise, the good news is that losing your license isn’t automatic. But you have to act fast, follow the right steps, and understand what Idaho law requires.
This post will break down how license suspensions work, what timelines you’re up against, and how a Boise DUI lawyer can help you protect your ability to drive.
There Are Two Ways You Can Lose Your License
After a DUI arrest in Idaho, your license can be suspended in two different ways. Most people don’t realize these are two separate processes, which is why early legal help makes a big difference.
First, there’s the administrative license suspension (ALS). This kicks in automatically if you:
- Blew over 0.08% on a breathalyzer
- Refused to take a breath or blood test
The suspension takes effect 30 days after your arrest, unless you request a hearing within 7 days to challenge it. If you don’t request that hearing:
- You’ll lose your license for 90 days if you fail the test
- You’ll lose it for 1 year if you refuse testing
Second, there’s the court-ordered suspension if you’re convicted of DUI. Even if you’ve already served part of the ALS suspension, the court can impose additional suspension time. For a first DUI in Idaho, that usually means:
- At least 30 days of no driving
- Up to 180 days total, with the possibility of a restricted license after the first 30 days
These suspensions can overlap but are separate. You can avoid one or both—but you have to act quickly.
Can You Still Drive After a DUI?
In many cases, yes. If this is your first DUI and you meet certain conditions, you may qualify for a restricted license after the initial 30-day suspension period. This license allows you to drive for essential tasks, like:
- Going to work or school
- Attending medical appointments or court-required programs
To get a restricted license, you must meet Idaho’s conditions:
- Install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on your vehicle
- Provide proof of SR-22 insurance
- Pay the required fees
If you refused the chemical test during your arrest, you’re not eligible for a restricted license during your one-year suspension period. This is one of the harshest penalties for refusing to cooperate during a DUI stop.
What About Drivers Under 21?
Idaho has a zero-tolerance DUI policy for anyone under 21. That means even a blood alcohol level of 0.02% (far below the adult legal limit) can lead to a DUI charge.
If you’re under 21 and convicted, you face:
- 1-year license suspension
- No driving for at least 90 days
- Required alcohol education courses
- Potential school-related consequences (loss of housing, scholarships, or campus discipline)
A DUI can follow you well beyond graduation. That’s why it’s critical to work with a DUI defense lawyer who understands how to reduce or manage penalties for younger drivers.
Your DUI Timeline: What Happens When
If you were arrested for DUI, here’s what the next few weeks and months may look like:
Immediately after the arrest
You’ll receive a temporary permit that allows you to drive for 30 days. During that window, you need to request a hearing to challenge the administrative suspension, or lose your license automatically.
The first 30 days
Your court dates begin, and you’ll face both the administrative and criminal parts of the case. If convicted, you’ll enter a mandatory 30-day no-driving period.
After 30 days
You may be eligible for a restricted license (unless you refused the test), but only if you’ve met all conditions, including IID installation and SR-22 insurance.
After 180 days
If you’ve followed all court orders, paid your fees, and met your obligations, you may be able to fully reinstate your driving privileges.
Why Legal Help Makes a Difference
DUI cases move fast, and the rules aren’t always clear. A good attorney doesn’t just defend you—they help you stay in control of your future.
Here’s how a DUI lawyer can help:
- Fight to stop the automatic suspension through a timely hearing
- Challenge the legality of the stop or test results
- Guide you through the restricted license process
- Help reduce the length of your suspension—or eliminate it entirely
- Work toward lower charges or even a case dismissal
At Shep Law Group, we help people throughout Boise and Ada County fight first-time DUI charges. Whether you’re a student or a working adult, we’ll give you honest answers, strong legal support, and the best possible strategy to stay on the road.
You Have a Short Window—Take Action Now
If you’ve been arrested for DUI, the clock is already ticking. You have just 7 days to request a hearing to challenge your license suspension.
Waiting too long means you’ll lose that chance—and your license.
If you’re ready to protect your driving privileges and put this behind you, reach out now. The sooner we talk, the more we can do.
