Your license after a DUI arrest in Pennsylvania
This is the case that moves first. It runs at the Court of Common Pleas, and it is decided on a different question from whether you are guilty of anything.
calendar days to
request a hearing
Counted from the date you were served notice. Those are not always the same day.
The suspension becomes final and the right to appeal is generally lost. Filing on time can hold the suspension while the appeal is decided, though not in every case.
75 Pa.C.S. § 1550(a), (b)(1)(i)
The hearing request is the step with a deadline, and it is decided at the Court of Common Pleas rather than in your criminal case. A lawyer can file it for you.
DUI lawyers in PennsylvaniaRestricted driving and interlock
These are choices, not just penalties. Where one applies, filing the paperwork can change what happens to your driving rather than only adding to it, and most people do not know they can elect it.
Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD)
Diversion program, not offered everywhere
75 Pa.C.S. § 3802(h); Act 58 of 2025
- Where
- Depends on the county
Ignition interlock driver's license
Restricted driving privilege
75 Pa.C.S. § 3805.1
- Where
- Statewide
Occupational limited license, not available after a DUI
Restricted driving privilege
75 Pa.C.S. § 1553
- Where
- Statewide
Read the full requirementHide the full requirement
An occupational limited license, which permits limited driving for work and similar necessities, is expressly NOT available where the suspension is based on a DUI under section 3802 or a chemical-test refusal under section 1547. Many drivers assume an OLL is the standard route back to limited driving and it is not, for exactly the offenses this site covers. The ignition interlock limited license under section 3805.1 is the only route to driving before full restoration in a DUI case.
What to do this week
- 01
Find the notice you were given
It is usually the document that starts this clock, and it often doubles as a temporary permit.
- 02
Work out the date
Count 30 calendar days from the date you were served notice. Put a reminder several days before it falls, not on the day.
- 03
Request the hearing
It goes to the Court of Common Pleas, by filing a Petition for Appeal with the county Prothonotary. Missing it ends the matter without anyone reviewing it.