Many college students in New Jersey attend school far from home. In some cases, a student may face a DWI or other criminal charges in a different state.
A DWI in another state does not stay there. It can follow a student back to New Jersey and affect their college career.
Why does a DWI charge follow you across state lines?
New Jersey is part of the Interstate Driver License Compact. This agreement allows states to share traffic offense information, including DWI charges. If you receive a DWI in another state, New Jersey will likely find out. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission may take action and even suspend your license.
How does an out-of-state DWI affect your education?
A license suspension can cause major problems for students. Many students drive to class, work or internships. Losing driving privileges may make it harder to attend school or keep a job. Some schools even require reporting of criminal charges. A student may face academic discipline if the school finds the charge serious enough.
Many colleges have student conduct codes. A DWI can count as a violation against this code. The school may decide to put the student on probation, suspend them or even remove them from campus housing. This can delay graduation or limit participation in student activities. Athletes or scholarship recipients may face extra penalties from their teams or sponsors.
Some students think that a DWI in another state will not matter once they return to New Jersey. This belief is often incorrect. The consequences of an out-of-state DWI often follow students home and into school. Taking the charge seriously is important, especially when considering long-term goals.