So how does an out of State license revocation affect a NC DWI? Since you are not a resident here, you maybe alright. Keep reading. We’ll explain further.
Out of State License Revocation and LDP
Because we practice on the border of NC and SC, we deal with this issue regularly. While N.C.G.S. 20-28(a) deals with driving while license revoked, it is written for NC residents. Rather, driving while license revoked (DWLR) generally requires that one’s license be revoked by the State or North Carolina. Furthermore, that notice requirement must be provided by the State. Consequently, it would be difficult for NC to show what another State did or did not do. As a result, the current view is that a better charge would be driving without a license. But what about an out of State license revocation and a DWI conviction here?
Limited Driving Privilege
Whether you are a resident or a just passing through, a proper license is required to drive. Hence, if you live in NC, you get a driver’s license. But if you live somewhere else, you have driving privileges while here. However, you can have only one valid driver’s license. So if convicted of a DWI, judges will order that you not drive until properly licensed by the DMV. Regardless of you residency status, you must have a limited driving privilege to drive in NC. Rather, your past makes no difference now. Hence, you must have a valid LDP to drive or you risk a much more serious DWLR charge.
So how bad is the DWLR problem? Well just 5 years ago, there were more than 163,000 charges of driving while license revoked. As a result, it is the third most commonly charged criminal offense, after speeding and displaying an expired registration plate. Hence, police officers are keenly aware and are looking for folks breaking this law. Consequently, don’t take chances. After all, the risk is serious, and consequences are quite severe.
