Virginia’s New DUI Laws 2021-2022
Virginia changed its DUI legislation last summer to give first-time DUI offenders more leeway in retaining their driving privileges. July 1, 2021, that wiggle room was expanded to include repeat offenders.
The Law Regarding First-Time DUI Infractions
On July 1, 2020, Virginia enacted new legislation allowing those convicted of a first-time DUI to use an ignition interlock device (IID) while maintaining their ability to drive.
Prior to this change, individuals convicted of their first DUI faced a one-year license suspension and, in some cases, were granted a limited license that allowed them to drive to required locations (school, work, etc.).
Individuals with an “any purpose” limited license can drive wherever they wish as long as they have an ignition interlock device placed in their vehicle.
What Is An Ignition Interlock Device?
An ignition interlock device is simply a breathalyzer that is integrated into the ignition of a vehicle. To start the car, the driver must submit to a breath test to demonstrate that they are not impaired by alcohol. The vehicle will not start if the device detects the presence of alcohol.
Additionally, the ignition interlock device may compel the driver to perform breath tests while driving to demonstrate that they did not begin drinking alcohol after starting the automobile.
Virginia’s New Reoffending Option
The above-mentioned legislative amendment applied solely to first-time DUI convictions. Repeat DUI offenders in Virginia, on the other hand, now have the same opportunity. Individuals who were ineligible or denied for a restricted license in the past may now utilize an IID in addition to their restricted license rather than having their license canceled.
To qualify for the limited license “any purpose,” the motorist must meet the following requirements:
- For a certain period of time, the motorist must wear remote alcohol monitoring equipment.
- The driver is not permitted to consume alcohol.
- Each vehicle that the driver personally owns must be equipped with an IID.
- Virginia DUI Attorneys
Contact us immediately if you suspect you may be eligible for an ignition interlock device under the new law. At David A.C Long, our DUI attorneys have considerable knowledge of Virginia DUI legislation and can assist you in determining your eligibility.