Arrested for DUI in Mississippi? Protect Your License

Why your license is at risk right away

After a DUI arrest, your driving privileges can be affected by an administrative action that is distinct from your criminal case. This action can move forward even if the criminal charge is reduced or dismissed. Mississippi’s implied consent framework authorizes license consequences based on refusal or test results, with procedures and contest rights described in statute. See Miss. Code Ann. § 63-11-23.

Administrative vs. criminal cases: two tracks

• Administrative (license) action: The Mississippi Department of Public Safety’s Driver Service Bureau oversees suspensions, ignition interlock eligibility, restricted licenses, and reinstatement. The focus is your privilege to drive. See § 63-11-23.
• Criminal court case: The court handles guilt, sentencing, and court-ordered conditions under the DUI statute. Court outcomes can influence license consequences, but the administrative process has its own procedures and timelines.

If you receive a notice from MDPS, read it carefully. Response windows are short and set by statute or the notice itself.

Key decisions you may face early

• Whether to request an administrative review or hearing to challenge a proposed suspension (follow the instructions and deadlines on your notice and in § 63-11-23).
• Whether to seek an ignition interlock-restricted license so you can drive for work, school, medical needs, or family obligations if eligible.
• How to document proof of insurance and any required evaluation, treatment, or education.
• How court dates and defense strategy may affect your license options and timing.

Ignition interlock options

Mississippi law allows many drivers to continue driving on a restricted basis with an ignition interlock device if they meet statutory conditions and comply with MDPS procedures. See Miss. Code Ann. § 63-11-31 and MDPS guidance on Ignition Interlock. You must use an approved vendor, maintain the device, and avoid violations; noncompliance can lead to additional sanctions.

Refusals and test results

Refusing a breath, blood, or urine test can trigger license consequences under Mississippi’s implied consent law. Test results at or above statutory limits can also affect eligibility and the length or terms of a suspension. See Miss. Code Ann. § 63-11-5 and § 63-11-23. Because outcomes depend on your record and case details, get legal guidance promptly.

Commercial drivers and out-of-state licenses

CDL holders face stricter rules. DUI-related actions can disqualify your CDL and affect non-commercial privileges. See Miss. Code Ann. § 63-1-216 and the federal standards at 49 C.F.R. § 383.51. If you are licensed in another state, Mississippi can act on your privilege to drive in Mississippi and may notify other jurisdictions; your home state will apply its own laws to any report it receives.

What to gather now

• The citation, booking sheet, and any paperwork about your license or testing
• Proof of insurance
• Dates and deadlines on any MDPS or court notices
• Names of potential witnesses and any photos, videos, or receipts from the day

Having this information ready helps your lawyer evaluate administrative options quickly.

How a lawyer can help

An attorney can track and challenge the administrative action, pursue an ignition interlock-restricted license if available, coordinate your criminal defense with license strategy, and guide you through compliance and reinstatement. Early representation often expands your options.

Next steps

• Do not ignore any notice about your license—these often involve short response windows.
• Consult a Mississippi DUI attorney as soon as possible.
• Follow MDPS instructions precisely for any interlock, insurance filings, or reinstatement steps.
• Keep copies of all submissions and confirmations.

Need help now? Contact us for a confidential review.

Frequently asked questions

How quickly do I need to act after a DUI arrest?

Immediately. Some MDPS deadlines can be very short. Missing them can trigger or extend a suspension.

Can I drive to work with an interlock?

If eligible and properly enrolled, an interlock-restricted license can allow you to drive for work and other approved needs, subject to strict compliance.

What if I refused testing?

Refusals carry separate consequences under implied consent laws and may require different steps for eligibility and timelines. Get counsel promptly.

Will Mississippi report to my home state?

Often yes. Mississippi may report administrative actions, and your home state applies its own rules to any notice it receives.

We’re here to protect your ability to drive

If you were arrested for DUI in Mississippi, reach out today. We’ll review your paperwork, identify time-sensitive options, and build a plan to safeguard your driving privileges while defending your case.

Legal references

• Miss. Code Ann. § 63-11-23 (implied consent procedures; license seizure/suspension; hearing rights)
• Miss. Code Ann. § 63-11-5 (implied consent to chemical testing)
• Miss. Code Ann. § 63-11-31 (ignition interlock; restricted driving privilege)
• Miss. Code Ann. § 63-1-216 (CDL disqualifications)
• 49 C.F.R. § 383.51 (federal CDL disqualification standards)
• MDPS: Ignition Interlock (agency guidance)

Mississippi-specific disclaimer

This post provides general information about Mississippi DUI/license issues and is not legal advice. Laws and agency practices change, and outcomes depend on your specific facts and record. Reading this does not create an attorney-client relationship. Consult a licensed Mississippi attorney for advice about your situation.