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License Plate Impoundment
If you have been arrested for a DWI you could lose your license plates for a minimum of one (1) year and be forced to place special license plates, or “Whiskey Plates” on any vehicle you drive. Usually only those individuals who have a prior DWI are subject to this rule. However, there are a number of aggravating factors that could cause you to lose your license plates even if this is your first DWI offense. Contact an experienced DWI attorney immediately to find out if license plate impoundment applies to your individual case.
Notice of License Plate Impoundment
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety will issue a License Plate Impoundment Order any time your driver’s license or driving privileges are revoked under the following circumstances:
* This is not an all-inclusive list and there are many other factors that allow the Department of Public Safety to revoke your license plates
If you receive a License Plate Impoundment Order you are required to do the following within seven (7) days:
The License Plate Impoundment order is effective immediately. The arresting officer will issue a temporary vehicle permit that is valid for seven (7) days (or forty-five (45) days if someone else owns the vehicle).
Revocation Period
The minimum term of License Plate Impoundment is one (1) year. During this time the DWI offender may not drive any vehicle unless they still have driving privileges (valid driver’s license or limited license) and place special serialized license plates, “Whiskey Plates” on any vehicle they operate.
Special Registration Plates – “Whiskey Plates”
If the license pates on the vehicle used in a DWI offense have been impounded it is possible for you or someone else to obtain Special Registration Plates, or “Whiskey Plates” that have a series of identifiable numbers and letters. These plates signify to policemen that either the vehicle or the driver was involved in an alcohol related offense.
You may be able to obtain Special Registration Plates under the following conditions:
License Plate Impoundment is a very confusing and difficult area of the law. You only have a limited amount of time to challenge the impoundment of your license plates if you are arrested for DWI. It is very important that you contact an experienced DWI attorney immediately to discuss your options in the event you are issued a License Plate Impoundment Order.
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