A drunk driving charge (DUI) is a serious offense in Pennsylvania. A DUI conviction can result in significant fines, jail time, and other penalties. It can also have collateral consequences, such as impacting professional licenses.
Many professions require you to have a license to practice. A DUI conviction could result in one or more negative actions, including suspension of your professional license or denial of an application for a professional license. A drunk driving ticket could put your professional career in jeopardy.
Examples of how a drunk driving ticket impacts professional licensures in Pennsylvania include the following.
Commercial Truck Drivers
A DUI conviction is a serious matter for commercial truck drivers. They can lose their personal driver’s license and the CDL (commercial driver’s license). They cannot operate a truck or other commercial vehicle without a CDL.
The CDL suspension for drunk driving is a year (three years if transporting hazardous materials). A second DUI offense results in a lifetime suspension of a driver’s CDL.
Physicians
A physician must be fit to practice medicine to meet the duty of care owed to their patients. Doctors with drunk driving charges must appear before the medical board. The board determines whether accused doctors are fit to practice medicine. Failing to disclose a DUI conviction could result in the loss of your medical license.
Lawyers
Attorneys are held to a high ethical standard. They must report a DUI conviction to the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania’s Disciplinary Board, or they could lose their bar license. A drunk driving offense could result in disciplinary proceedings, leading to sanctions such as reprimands and disbarment.
Nurses
A nurse must report a DUI conviction, plea, or participation in Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition to the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. Reporting a drunk driving charge prompts an investigation to determine whether penalties are justified. Penalties could include license suspension or revocation.
Pilots
A pilot must report a DUI conviction to the Federal Aviation Administration. The FAA takes drunk driving tickets very seriously. They may view the drunk driving charges as evidence of substance abuse or dependency. The pilot may lose their license or be forced to participate in a mandatory alcohol treatment program.
Other Consequences for Professionals Who Receive a Drunk Driving Ticket
A conviction for drunk driving can result in losing your professional license. However, there are other consequences that you could face even if you can keep your professional license.
Damage to Professional Reputation
A drunk driving charge can damage your professional reputation and credibility. Colleagues, employers, clients, and customers may view a DUI as an indication of poor judgment. It could lead to a loss of business revenue or unemployment.
Professional Advancement
You may find that you are not considered for promotions and other opportunities if you have a DUI conviction. Advancing in your career could become more challenging. Employers and clients may view your drunk driving charges as irresponsible and unprofessional.
Employment Opportunities
Many employers check criminal backgrounds. If you have a DUI conviction on your criminal record, it could negatively impact your employment opportunities. A potential employer may view the drunk driving ticket as an indicator that you could have a drinking problem. At the very least, they may view the ticket as an example of poor judgment.
Insurance Costs
Many professionals are required to maintain malpractice insurance or other forms of liability insurance. A DUI on your record could increase your insurance premiums. In some cases, an insurance company may deny coverage because of a drunk driving conviction.
What Should I Do to Protect My Professional License if I Receive a Drunk Driving Ticket?
A drunk driving ticket has legal consequences if you are convicted. Additionally, you could lose your professional license. Legal advice is essential in both situations.
An attorney can also help you with your professional license. It is crucial that you understand your obligations and responsibilities if you receive a drunk driving ticket. A lawyer can explain what you must do and represent you in administrative hearings before boards.