Defending DWI Charges Across New Jersey
NJ DWI License Suspension & Restoration Lawyers
Contact Us Now
License Suspension & Restoration After DWI in New Jersey
Understanding License Suspension After a DWI in New Jersey
In New Jersey, a DWI conviction almost always means losing your driving privileges. Suspensions vary based on your BAC level, prior offenses, or whether you refused a breath test. And unlike many other states, New Jersey does not allow hardship licenses — you cannot drive to work or school while suspended.
This guide will explain:
- How long do suspensions last for first, second, and third offenses?
- Ignition interlock rules and their connection to BAC levels.
- 2024–2025 updates, including IID credit and surcharge reform.
- The penalties for driving while suspended.
- Step-by-step instructions for restoring your license.
- A checklist to make sure you meet every requirement.
- How our attorneys can help fight suspension or speed up restoration.
By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect if your license has been suspended after a DWI in New Jersey — and what steps to take to get back on the road legally.
NJ MVC License Suspension After a DWI
First Offense
- BAC 0.08% to under 0.10%: 3-month suspension, $250–$400 fines, IDRC, $1,000/year for 3 years insurance surcharge, possible IID.
- BAC 0.10% to under 0.15%: 7–12-month suspension, $300–$500 fines, IDRC, IID required for 7–12 months.
- BAC 0.15% or higher: 4–6 months suspension, $300–$500 fines, IDRC, mandatory IID for 6–12 months.
Second Offense
- 2-year suspension, $500–$1,000 fines, 2–90 days jail, IDRC, IID for 1–3 years, $1,000/year surcharge.
Third Offense
- 10-year suspension, $1,000 fine, 180 days in prison, IID for 1–3 years, and a $1,500/year surcharge.
Refusal to Submit
- First Refusal: 7–12-month suspension, $300–$500 fines, IID for 6–12 months.
- Second Refusal: 2-year suspension, $500–$1,000 fines, IID for 1–3 years.
- Third Refusal: 10-year suspension, $1,000 fine, IID for 1–3 years.
Review the official NJMVC penalty chart.
NJ Driving While Suspended After a DWI
Driving with a suspended license is a separate crime under N.J.S.A. 39:3-40. Penalties can include:
- $500 fine.
- 10–90 days in jail.
- Additional license suspension.
- If you cause injury while driving suspended, you may face felony charges.
Review the official NJMVC suspension and restoration chart.
2024–2025 Updates to License Suspension and IID Credit System in NJ
Recent changes to New Jersey’s DWI laws impact suspensions and restoration:
- IID Credit System: Installing an ignition interlock device early may reduce suspension period (2-for-1 credit).
- Voluntary IID: Some drivers may install it voluntarily to avoid or shorten penalties.
- Surcharge Reform: Certain DWI surcharges have been reduced or eliminated; however, the $1,000 annual insurance surcharge remains.
- No More School Zone Enhancements: The school zone DWI statute was repealed in 2019, but courts may still consider children or location as aggravating factors.
Review the official NJMVC surcharge chart.
Suspension vs. Revocation in New Jersey
- Suspension: Temporary loss of driving privileges for a defined period, with restoration possible.
- Revocation: Permanent loss of license eligibility, such as for causing death while intoxicated or repeat serious violations.
NJ DWI Restoration Checklist and License Reinstatement
Restoring your license requires completing every penalty in full. Steps include:
- Serve the whole suspension period.
- Complete IDRC program requirements.
- Pay all fines, fees, and surcharges.
- Install an IID if required.
- Pay the MVC restoration fee and reapply for a license.
- Resolve any unpaid tickets or parking fines.
- Await and comply with your Notice of Restoration from MVC.
Checklist Before Applying for Restoration
- Suspension time fully served.
- IDRC completed (failure may extend suspension or result in jail).
- All fines, surcharges, and judgments paid (5% + $100 fee required if in judgment status; unpaid judgments may result in wage garnishment or liens).
- IID installed and verified (if required).
- Parking tickets and outstanding violations cleared.
- MVC restoration fee paid.
Conditional Driving Options After a DWI in NJ
New Jersey does not issue hardship licenses. However:
- In limited cases, conditional driving privileges may be restored with IID-only driving after meeting specific requirements.
- This is not the same as a hardship license, but it allows some drivers to resume driving sooner with limited restrictions.
Review the NJ Courts license restoration info.
How Our Lawyers Can Help with License Suspension and Restoration in NJ
The process of suspension and restoration can be confusing, particularly in light of recent legal changes. Our attorneys help by:
- Challenging suspensions where legal errors exist.
- Advising whether voluntary IID installation can shorten penalties.
- Ensuring you meet MVC restoration requirements on time.
- Defending you if you are charged with driving while suspended.
License Suspension & Restoration FAQs
How long will my driver’s license be suspended after a DWI conviction?
From 3 months to 10 years, depending on BAC and prior offenses.
Does New Jersey allow a hardship license?
No. NJ does not offer hardship or work licenses after DWI.
What is the IID credit system in New Jersey?
Installing an IID early may reduce suspension time. Some drivers receive 2-for-1 credit toward their suspension.
What happens if I don’t complete IDRC?
Failure to attend IDRC can result in extended suspension or jail time.
What surcharges must I pay after being convicted of a DWI?
Most convictions require a $1,000 annual payment for 3 years, or a $1,500 yearly for a third offense. Some older surcharges have been eliminated; however, judgments require a 5% fee plus a $100 restoration fee.
What happens if I drive while suspended for DWI?
You face fines, jail time, and additional suspension. If you cause injury, you may face felony charges.
Is there a difference between suspension and revocation?
Yes. Suspensions are temporary; revocations may be permanent.
Can I get conditional driving privileges in New Jersey?
Yes, in limited IID-only situations. This is not a hardship license, but it allows for restricted driving.
Contact us today
Call for Legal Help on NJ License Suspension & Restoration
If your license has been suspended for a DWI, the penalties can feel overwhelming — from months or years without driving to costly surcharges and strict restoration requirements. However, every case is defensible, and there are often options to reduce penalties or expedite reinstatement.
Facing a DWI license suspension in New Jersey? Don’t face it alone. Contact a New Jersey DUI attorney at Aiello, Harris, Abate Law Group, PC today!
Call us today at (908) 561-5577 or contact us. Your initial consultation will take place over the phone, and you can schedule an appointment at one of our office locations across New Jersey.
Contact our NJ DWI License Suspension & Restoration Lawyers
Meet Our Team
The Aiello Harris Abate Law Group is made of a group of professionals that are here to help you through all challenges.
Get to Know UsLegal Practice Areas
Our law firm does not stop at License Suspension And Restoration After DWI — take a look at how we can help you overcome your legal obstacles.
View all Practice Areas