Alabama's Drug Offenses and Driver's License Suspension: An Overview

Overview of Driver's License Suspension for Drug Offenses

License Suspension for Drug Crimes

• Law: Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency is required to suspend the driver's license of any individual convicted of certain drug offenses for six months.

• Applicable Offenses: Under Section 13A-12-291 of the Alabama Code, the driver's license of an individual will be suspended for the following specific drug offenses:

  1. Criminal Solicitation to Commit Controlled Substance Trafficking: Involving trafficking in specified substances under Section 13A-12-231 or unlawful possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance under Section 13A-12-211.

  2. Attempt to Commit Controlled Substance Trafficking: Attempting the crime of trafficking in specified substances under Section 13A-12-231 or unlawful possession with intent to distribute under Section 13A-12-211.

  3. Criminal Conspiracy: Involving the crime of trafficking in specified substances under Section 13A-12-231.

  4. Trafficking in Specified Substances: As defined under Section 13A-12-231.

  5. Unlawful Possession with Intent to Distribute: As outlined in subsections (c) and (d) of Section 13A-12-211.

  6. Driving Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance: Governed by Section 32-5A-191 for driving under the influence of controlled substances or a combination of substances and alcohol.

Suspension Process

• Procedure: Upon conviction of the specified offenses, the court forwards the offender’s driver's license to the Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency.

• Out-of-State Licenses: The agency also coordinates with other states for suspensions involving out-of-state licenses.

Impact of Rehabilitation Programs

• Credit for Treatment: Time spent in court-approved in-patient drug or alcohol rehabilitation can be credited against the suspension period.

• License Surrender: Offenders ordered to enter a facility must surrender their driver's license, which is destroyed by the court.

Reinstatement and Fees

• Reinstatement: Following the suspension period, a $25 fee is required for license reinstatement, in addition to other standard fees.

• Use of Fees: Collected fees are used by the Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency for law enforcement purposes.

Contact Vaughn Defense for a free consultation

For guidance and representation related to drug offenses and driver's license suspensions in Auburn and Opelika, Alabama, our firm is here to help.

Nothing in this guide should be construed as legal advice or the establishment of an attorney client relationship. For more information about anything contained on this page, please contact me to discuss.