Like many states, Tennessee can imposes two types of consequences for drivers after an arrest from a DUI. These two types of suspension are independent of one another, and you have to deal with both in order to start driving again.
An administrative suspension, which happens immediately if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08 or over, or if you refuse a test. If you fail your breath test your arresting officer will take your license and issue you a notice of revocation. This is your temporary driving permit, which allows you to drive for 10 days. You can challenge your suspension within those 10 days.If you do not choose to challenge your suspension, or if the hearing is not decided in your favor, the revocation stands. If this is your first or second offense, you may be eligible for a restricted license.
Criminal consequence: if you are convicted in court or plead guilty to DUI. A first offense DUI conviction carries the following penalties in Tennessee:
Misdemeanor Conviction
Fine: $350 – $1,500
Jail Time: 48 Hours up to 11 Months and 29 Days
Driver’s License: Suspended for 1 Year
Community Service: Must remove litter from a state highway for a period of 24 hours.
Tennessee has a website dedicated to helping you understand its Ignition Interlock Program. Check it out for detailed and up to date information.
In order for your time with an ignition interlock device to count toward your requirement, you MUST have a restricted driver license. If you are required under T.C.A. 55-10-417 to complete an additional six (6) month requirement for two (2) DUI convictions within five (5) years, that time WILL NOT begin until you have reinstated your driving privileges and been reissued a restricted driver license.
Once you are convicted of a DUI offense, request a restricted license/ignition interlock device from the Court. The Judge signs the Order for Restricted License (ORDL).
Call LifeSafer Ignition Interlock at 800-634-3077. Ask about discounts and special offers. You may drive on the ORDL for a maximum of 10 days, allowing you time to have an ignition interlock device installed.
Once your ignition interlock device has been installed, allow at least forty-eight (48) hours for LifeSafer to electronically submit the proof of installation and have it post to your account in the Driver Services database before going to the Driver Services Office. Driver Services cannot accept a paper copy of your installation report from you.
Take the original certified court order and a copy to a Driver Services Center to obtain a restricted license. The Driver Services Center will also require proof of interlock installation to have been submitted to electronically and an SR-22 certificate (your insurance company can help with this). When you apply, you will be issued a 90-day restricted interim driver license. The application is then sent to the Driver Services Central Office for review and a final determination.
An interlock is about $3 per day on average. What you are paying for goes beyond the device, however. Our IIDs are tested and calibrated for accuracy before ever going out the door. Our customer service and reporting specialists are also part of LifeSafer’s value to customers. Your local authorized Tennessee installation center is constantly updating their training and calibration service so your program runs smoothly and we can install an interlock on any vehicle. There is a lot riding on your device working properly and LifeSafer invests in accuracy and ease of use.
