Will a DUI impact a professional license?

If you hold a professional license in the state of Florida and find yourself accused of DUI, you need to be aware of the potential consequences that may arise.

Your license represents your qualifications, skills and commitment to your chosen field, and a DUI can have significant repercussions on your career.

Reporting requirement

According to the NHTSA, in 2021, 13,384 people died in traffic incidents related to impaired driving. If you are facing a DUI charge and hold a professional license, you have an obligation to report this to the appropriate licensing board. Failure to do so can lead to further disciplinary actions.

Investigation and disciplinary actions

Once the licensing board receives the report, they may start an investigation. The board will assess the circumstances surrounding a DUI and determine if it has any bearing on the accused’s ability to practice their profession safely and competently.

If the board concludes that a DUI does indeed affect one’s professional capabilities, the accused may face disciplinary actions. The board may impose a penalty that ranges from a formal reprimand to the suspension or revocation of the license.

Impact on professional reputation

A DUI conviction can damage a person’s professional reputation. Clients, employers and colleagues may view a DUI as evidence of poor judgment or a lack of responsibility, which can erode trust and confidence in one’s abilities.

Possible rehabilitation programs

In some cases, licensing boards may require the accused to successfully complete rehabilitation programs or undergo substance abuse treatment.

Period of monitoring

If convicted, your licensing board may impose a period of monitoring. During this time, they will closely scrutinize your professional activities to ensure that you maintain the necessary standards of conduct and competence.

Long-term consequences

The effects of a DUI on a professional license can extend beyond the immediate aftermath of the conviction. Some licensing boards consider the long-term implications of a convicted person’s actions and may take them into account when making decisions about the renewal of their license in the future.

Understanding the potential negative impact of a DUI on your license can help you successfully navigate the process if you are accused and minimize the damage done to your career and reputation.