Driving under the influence (DUI) affects more than your driver’s license when you hold a professional license. In Tiverton, Rhode Island, many licensed professionals face a second process along with the criminal case. This is because licensing boards act to protect public trust, but not to decide guilt.

How licensing boards start DUI investigations

Boards learn about DUIs from court records, employers or when you report yourself. Boards in Rhode Island can review alcohol related offenses under state law. The licensing process can last longer than the criminal case and the outcome depends on your profession and the facts.

What do boards look at during a probe?

A board investigation is not a criminal case but an administrative review of your fitness to practice. The board only needs to show that something probably happened, which is a lower standard than the beyond a reasonable doubt standard used in criminal trials. In 2026, many boards will also check the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) and the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse during their review.

If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) exceeded 0.15%, the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) boards typically require a chemical dependency evaluation. They may refer you to the Rhode Island Medical Society Physicians Health Committee or the Intervention Project for Nurses (IPN) for assessment and monitoring. Other professional boards may require similar evaluations or refer you to profession specific monitoring or health programs for assessment.

Possible penalties beyond the court case

Licensing boards do not just revoke professional licenses. They use a graduated sanctioning system with penalties depending on whether the DUI is a one-time thing or evidence of a deeper problem. The current board disciplinary actions include:

• Letter of concern: A non disciplinary warning that remains in the licensee’s private file.
• Reprimand: A formal public sanction that appears on public license records.
• Probation: A conditional status allowing continued practice while subject to requirements such as random drug testing and workplace monitoring.
• Suspension: A temporary loss of the right to practice, usually until the licensee meets required treatment or conditions.
• Revocation: A permanent loss of the right to practice, reserved for repeat or severe offenses.

If you are facing a board probe, know that you do not have to do things alone. An experienced DUI attorney can review your case and help you respond to these actions.

Protect your license and your career

One single mistake should not cost you your livelihood. It may be helpful to speak with a lawyer who knows how to handle professional discipline. Comply with the required evaluations and follow treatment plans to show you are taking responsibility. Following these steps can help you present your case in a strong light.