Alabama’s 10‑Day DUI Deadline: What You Must Do Right Now to Protect Your License

Milton Yarbrough III // Jan 06 2026 21:37

Quick Summary: If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Alabama, you have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request an administrative license hearing. Miss this window and the state can automatically suspend your driver’s license—long before your criminal case is resolved. Acting fast protects your ability to drive, strengthens your defense options, and gives our team at Yarbrough Law Firm in Huntsville more time to challenge the stop, the testing, and the evidence in North Alabama courts.

Why the 10‑Day Deadline Matters

Alabama treats DUI arrests seriously, and the administrative license suspension (ALS) process moves quickly. Even if your criminal case is dismissed later, you can still lose your license if the ALS deadline passes. Filing the hearing request stops the automatic suspension and preserves your ability to drive while we fight the charges.

Alabama BAC Limits

In DUI cases across Madison, Morgan, Limestone, and Lawrence counties, law enforcement follows statewide blood alcohol concentration (BAC) standards:

  • 0.08% for most adult drivers
  • 0.04% for commercial drivers
  • 0.02% for drivers under 21

But BAC alone doesn’t decide guilt—testing procedures, machine accuracy, and the legality of the stop all factor into the defense.

Penalties You Could Face

DUI penalties in Alabama vary based on your record, but they may include:

  • License suspension
  • Fines and court costs
  • Mandatory programs or treatment
  • Possible jail time
  • Ignition interlock device requirements

Consequences increase with repeat offenses, high BAC levels, or accidents involving injury.

Smart Defense Angles in North Alabama DUI Cases

At Yarbrough Law Firm, we analyze every detail to protect your rights and driving privileges. Defense strategies may include:

  • Challenging the legality of the traffic stop or arrest
  • Questioning field sobriety test accuracy
  • Investigating breath or blood test errors
  • Highlighting constitutional violations
  • Negotiating charge reductions or dismissals when evidence is weak

We practice in courts throughout North Alabama and understand how local procedures, officers, and testing equipment impact your case.

Take Action Now—Your License Depends On It

If you’ve been charged with DUI in Huntsville or anywhere in North Alabama, don’t wait. That 10‑day clock starts immediately, and protecting your license starts with getting legal help fast.

Learn more about how we defend DUI charges here:
DUI Defense

Explore our full criminal defense services here:
Criminal Defense

For immediate help, call us at (256) 321‑5176 —we’re here to guide you through the next steps.