One of the first questions people ask after an OWI or DUI arrest in Indiana is:

“Am I going to lose my license?”

And right after that:

“Is there any way I can still drive?”

For many people, driving isn’t optional. It’s how you get to work, take care of your family, and handle everyday responsibilities.

The good news is this:

• An OWI charge in Indiana does not always mean you completely lose your ability to drive.

But what happens next depends on several factors.

What Happens to Your License After an OWI in Indiana?

After an OWI arrest, there are typically two separate issues affecting your license:

1. Administrative Actions (BMV)

These come from the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles and may include:

• License suspensions
• Consequences related to chemical test results or refusal

2. Court-Ordered Consequences

Separate from the BMV, the court handling your criminal case may also impose:

• License suspensions
• Driving restrictions
• Conditions tied to your case

These are two different systems, and understanding both is key to protecting your ability to drive.

How Long Will My License Be Suspended?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer.

The length of a suspension can depend on:

• Whether this is a first offense
• Prior OWI history
• Whether a chemical test was refused
• The outcome of the case
• Court decisions and conditions

Some suspensions are short. Others are longer.

The important thing to understand is that a suspension does not always mean no driving at all.

Can I Still Drive After an OWI?

In many cases, yes, but only under the right conditions.

There are two common ways people may be able to continue driving:

1. Ignition Interlock Device (IID)

An ignition interlock device is a breath-testing system installed in your vehicle.

Before the car starts, the driver must provide a breath sample.

Why this matters?

In some situations, an interlock device can allow you to:

• Continue driving during a suspension
• Meet court or BMV requirements
• Show compliance and responsibility

It’s not ideal, but it can be the difference between not driving at all and staying on the road legally.

2. Specialized Driving Privileges (SDP)


Specialized driving privileges are court-approved driving permissions that may allow limited driving for:

• Work
• School
• Medical appointments
• Family responsibilities

These privileges are not automatic and must be handled correctly.

What Does “Getting Your License Back” Actually Mean?

Many people think in terms of:

“When do I get my license back?”

But in reality, there are stages:

• Immediate impact after arrest
• Restricted or conditional driving (in some cases)
• Full reinstatement after requirements are met

The goal is not just to “wait it out.”

The goal is to:

• Stay compliant
• Avoid additional charges
• Maintain legal driving when possible

One of the biggest risks is making the situation worse after the arrest.

Common mistakes include:

• Driving while suspended without approval
• Ignoring BMV notices
• Missing court dates
• Not understanding eligibility for driving privileges
• Assuming nothing can be done

These mistakes can lead to:

• New criminal charges
• Longer suspensions
• Fewer options moving forward
• What Affects Whether You Can Drive Again?

Every case is different, but key factors include:

• Your prior record
• The details of the OWI case
• Whether all requirements are met
• Compliance with court orders
• Timing and proper filing of requests

This is why early decisions matter.

The Big Picture: Staying on the Road Legally

After an OWI, the focus should not just be on the charge itself.


At Baber & Baber, P.C., part of our approach is helping clients understand how to keep driving legally while their case is pending, when possible under Indiana law.

Final Thoughts

An OWI charge can feel like everything stops.

But in many cases, it doesn’t have to.

Understanding your options and avoiding costly mistakes can make a significant difference in how your situation plays out.

Need Help Understanding Your Situation?

If you’ve been charged with an OWI or DUI in Whitley County or Northeast Indiana and are concerned about your license, getting clear information early is important.

At Baber & Baber, P.C., we help clients understand their options and navigate both the court process and license-related issues with clarity.

If you want to understand what your next steps may look like, click here to send us a message or call us at 260.244.4422. Phones answered 24/7.