Loss of License for Drug Conviction

Anyone convicted of a drug offense knows there is the possibility of jail time, house arrest or probation.  The person convicted also knows he/she will be burdened with a criminal record.  What many people don’t know is that such a conviction carries a suspension of your driver’s license.

Under 75 Pa.C.S.A. Section 1532(c) if a conviction is a first time offense the person loses his/her license for 6 months, a second conviction means a one year suspension, and a third or subsequent conviction will cost the person a two year license suspension.

However, after April 22, 2019 the above law will no longer be in effect.  Drug offenders will no longer lose their license if convicted of a drug offense.  Many feel that the new law is a recognition that this law caused a lot of difficulty for those who need their license for work.

The most important question is what happens if you are arrested prior to April 22^nd but the conviction (finding of guilt before a court/judge) comes after that date.  There is no definitive answer in the law but most commentators believe that the important date is the date one is found or pleads guilty since the law uses the word conviction and not arrest.

If you are arrested for a drug offense before April 22^nd consult an attorney as soon as possible to determine the correct course of action.

The above is a general interpretation of the law.  Each case is different and the above may not apply to your situation.  Again, if you are arrested for a drug or any other offense consult an attorney as soon as possible.