Wichita Bail Bonds Blog

In Kansas, a driver can lose their license after just one DUI, but the length and severity of the suspension increase with each subsequent offense. The number of prior DUI convictions, the blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) at arrest, and whether the driver refused testing all affect how long the license is suspended or revoked. Understanding the rules helps motorists make better decisions after a DUI arrest.

First DUI Offense

A first DUI conviction in Kansas typically leads to a driver’s license suspension or revocation. For a BAC under .15 percent, the suspension is generally 30 days, followed by restricted driving and ignition interlock device (IID) requirements. If the BAC is .15 percent or higher, the suspension period is longer, often a full year, plus the IID requirement. So, you don’t need multiple DUIs to lose your license; one will trigger driving-privilege consequences.

Second DUI Offense

A second DUI in Kansas results in a significantly harsher suspension. For example, the driver may face a one-year suspension, followed by required IID installation for an additional period.  Because the second offense shows a pattern of impaired driving, authorities treat the risk more seriously.

Third Or Subsequent DUI Offense

If a driver is convicted of a third DUI and one of the prior convictions occurred within the last ten years, Kansas may classify the offense as a felony. A felony DUI triggers very substantial license and driving-privilege restrictions, longer suspension periods, and more severe consequences like long IID requirements. Some sources indicate a fourth DUI results in even longer revocation, potentially up to 10 years.

Refusal Of Chemical Testing And Administrative Suspension

Kansas also uses an administrative suspension process separate from the criminal case. If you refuse a blood or breath test, the state can suspend your license immediately, often for one year, regardless of whether you are convicted of DUI. The administrative suspension may begin before the criminal case concludes and is based on implied-consent laws requiring drivers to submit to testing.

How Long Is The License Lost

The length of the license suspension depends on your prior record, BAC level, and whether you refused testing. For first offenders with lower BACs, the suspension might be 30 days plus the IID period. For later offenses or very high BACs, suspensions of one year or more are common. Some repeat offenders face multi-year revocations or a decade of license loss before eligibility for reinstatement.