A Georgia DUI arrest starts a separate clock on your driver's licence that runs independently of your criminal case — and it is short. Call 855-488-2452 as soon as you can.
Two cases, not one
A Georgia DUI arrest creates two separate proceedings. The first is the criminal case in court. The second is an administrative action against your driver's licence, handled by the Department of Driver Services.
The administrative case moves first, and it has a short deadline that begins at arrest. Missing it can cost you your licence regardless of what later happens in court. This is the single most common and most costly mistake people make after a DUI arrest.
What we examine
The stop. An officer needs a lawful reason to pull a vehicle over. If that basis does not hold up, what followed may be challenged.
The field sobriety testing. These tests are standardised, and they are only meaningful when administered as designed. Conditions, instructions, and the officer's own observations are all reviewable.
The chemical testing. Breath and blood testing depends on properly maintained equipment, correct procedure, and a valid chain of custody. Georgia's implied consent notice must also be read correctly and at the right time.
The licence consequences. These vary with your age, your licence type, whether you have prior offences, and whether you submitted to or refused testing.
What is at stake
Georgia sets the per se blood alcohol limit at 0.08 percent for most drivers, 0.04 percent for commercial licence holders, and 0.02 percent for drivers under 21. A driver can also be charged without meeting those thresholds.
Beyond the immediate penalties, a DUI conviction stays on a Georgia driving record and can affect employment, insurance, and professional licensing for years. Understanding the whole picture — not just the court date — is part of deciding how to proceed.
After a DUI arrest
- Note the exact date of arrest — licence deadlines run from it
- Keep every document you were given, including the citation
- Write down what you remember while it is fresh
- Do not discuss the arrest on social media
- Do not miss your court date, whatever else is happening
- Speak with an attorney before the licence deadline passes
Common questions
How soon do I need to act after a Georgia DUI arrest?
Immediately. The administrative action against your driver's licence has a deadline that begins on the date of arrest, and it is measured in days, not weeks. It is separate from your court date. Call the office as soon as you are able so the deadline can be confirmed and protected.
Can I refuse a breath test in Georgia?
You can refuse, but refusal carries its own licence consequences under Georgia's implied consent law, and the refusal itself may be raised in your case. Whether a refusal helps or hurts depends entirely on the circumstances, which is worth reviewing with an attorney rather than guessing.
Will a DUI stay on my record permanently?
A DUI conviction in Georgia generally remains on your driving record and is not eligible for record restriction in the way some other offences are. This is a significant part of why the initial handling of the case matters.
Do I have to go to court?
DUI charges generally require court appearances. Do not miss any date listed on your paperwork while waiting to hear from our office — a missed appearance creates a separate and more serious problem.
This page describes general principles of Georgia law and is not legal advice. Statutes and procedures change, and how they apply depends on the facts of your situation. Speak with an attorney about your specific matter.