#duiwashington

After a DUI in Washington, it feels like everything is taken from you—including your right to drive. But here’s a secret many don’t know:

🚗 You can still drive—with an Ignition Interlock License (IIL).

The IIL lets you legally drive during your suspension, as long as you install an ignition interlock device. That’s the one that tests your breath before you can start your car.

To get an IIL, you need to:

Show proof of SR-22 insurance (yep, that high-risk coverage).

Get an interlock device installed (SmartStart is a great vendor).

Submit your IIL application to the DOL by certified mail.

Pay the $375 fee.

It’s not ideal. But it’s freedom. It’s work. It’s school. It’s life.

Most people don’t even realize this option exists.

Need help staying on the road after a DUI? Attorney Lyliane Couture can walk you through the process and protect your driving privileges.

Here’s the truth most drivers in Washington don’t realize until it’s too late:

Getting convicted in court isn’t the only way to lose your license. The DOL can suspend it just for the arrest.

Let that sink in.

Washington treats DUI with a two-track system:

Administrative Suspension (by DOL): starts 30 days after arrest unless you challenge it.

Criminal Suspension (by court): starts 45 days after conviction.

Even if you beat your DUI charge in court, if you ignored the DOL hearing deadline, your license can still be suspended. 👉 The two systems are independent. They don’t talk to each other. 👉 You must fight both.

Knowing this can be the difference between keeping your license and losing it for months or years.

Charged with a DUI in WA? Don’t let the system confuse you. Contact attorney Lyliane Couture to guide you through both sides of the fight.