Overview: Can You Lose Your Driver’s License for a Marijuana Charge in PA?
Well originally yes, but times have change…
Under current Pennsylvania law, simple possession of marijuana or another controlled substance, alone, does not result in a driver’s license suspension. However previously, Pennsylvania imposed mandatory license suspensions for certain drug convictions, even when the offense had nothing to do with driving. That law has since changed.
Consequences of Simple Possession and License
However, license consequences still apply in cases involving driving under the influence of marijuana or other controlled substances. If a person is charged with or convicted of DUI involving marijuana or narcotics, the Pennsylvania DUI statute authorizes license suspension or revocation, along with other serious penalties.
Because drug and DUI laws change and can be applied differently depending on the facts of a case, it is critical to understand how a specific marijuana or drug-related charge may impact your driving privileges and your future.
To learn more about how a marijuana charge or DUI involving drugs could affect your driver’s license and your life, contact Michael Kotik, Lawyer, of SKA Law Group at 218-883-0133 for a confidential case review.
FAQs: Can You Lose Your Driver’s License for a Marijuana Charge in Pennsylvania?
Does a simple marijuana possession charge still suspend my license in Pennsylvania?
No. Under current Pennsylvania law, a conviction for simple possession of marijuana or another controlled substance, by itself, does not automatically result in a driver’s license suspension. The old rule that imposed mandatory suspensions for many non-driving drug offenses has been changed.
When can a marijuana charge affect my driver’s license?
Your license is at risk when the charge involves driving, such as DUI involving marijuana or another controlled substance. In those cases, Pennsylvania’s DUI statute authorizes license suspension or revocation, along with fines, potential jail time, and other penalties.
Does it matter if I have a medical marijuana card?
Yes and no. Having a medical marijuana card may protect you from a simple possession charge if you are compliant with the program, but it does not shield you from a DUI allegation. You can still lose your license if the Commonwealth claims you were impaired while driving.
Can a marijuana DUI impact more than just my license?
Absolutely. A marijuana-related DUI can lead to:
- License suspension or revocation
- Fines and court costs
- Probation or possible jail time
- Mandatory treatment or classes
- A permanent criminal record
The license suspension is only one part of the overall consequences.
Why is it important to talk to a lawyer about a marijuana or drug-related DUI?
Because drug and DUI laws are evolving, the impact on your license and your record can depend heavily on the specific facts of your case. An experienced attorney can explain your risks, explore defenses, and help protect your driving privileges and future opportunities.
How can Attorney Michael Kotik help if I’m charged with a marijuana DUI?
Attorney Michael Kotik reviews the stop, the evidence of alleged impairment, and the charges themselves; challenge weaknesses in the prosecution’s case; and advise you on strategies to reduce or avoid license suspension and other penalties.