What Can I Expect from a First DUI in Rhode Island?

Got a first DUI in Rhode Island? You may be feeling nervous right now, but with the right representation behind you, such as a certified DUI lawyer and a reputable Ignition Interlock provider, you’ll get back on your feet in no time.

In Rhode Island, an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is a requirement for most DUI cases. Let’s go over a typical first DUI in Rhode Island timeline and how to get back to your life by reinstating your driving privileges with an Ignition Interlock.

A First DUI in Rhode Island Timeline

First, upon your arrest for a DUI, your vehicle was likely towed. At this point, when you are out of jail, you’ll receive information on what to do next with your DUI case. This is also a good time to hire a Rhode Island DUI lawyer to assist you.

You will likely be waiting out a hard license suspension and you may be ordered by the court to install an IID. If you must order a hardship license, you’ll still need to install an IID.

Below are all the requirements you need to complete to be eligible for a hardship license.

• Proof of installation of an IID. Your IID provider such as Smart Start will give you an installation certificate as proof
• Proof of your SR-22 insurance policy
• Court order with requirements to obtain a hardship license, including your authorized hours of operation
• Payment to update your license and add the hardship/IID restriction (about $7)

Your court DUI requirements could run concurrently with your hardship license requirements upon conviction. Now let’s define the likely consequences you may face for a first DUI conviction in Rhode Island.

• Fines
• Perform between 10 to 60 hours of community service and/or imprisonment for up to one year and/or mandatory attendance of a special course on driving while intoxicated
• Attending and completing an alcohol treatment program or DUI school
• License suspension between 30 to 180 days
  • If you must use an Ignition Interlock Device, you will need to wait out a 30-day license suspension followed by installing and using an Ignition Interlock between three months to a year. If your BrAC results were at or above .15, your license suspension will last between three to 18 months. If you refused your test, consequences are higher that include an IID requirement between six months to two years.

Installing an Ignition Interlock in Rhode Island

Upon a DUI arrest, one of the first instructions you may be given is to install an IID. That means you’ll need an IID provider that’s ready to accommodate to your schedule, and it certainly doesn’t hurt if they also offer low pricing and convenient locations. All of this and more is what you’ll experience with Smart Start in Rhode Island.

We’ve assisted many Rhode Island drivers just like you with getting back on the road. If you need any help or have questions, our 24/7/365 Customer Care Center is available at (800) 831-3299.

Schedule your installation appointment today by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.