How to Get Your Driver’s License Back After a Suspension: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand Why Your License Was Suspended

Before you can reinstate your license, you need to know the exact reason for the suspension. Here are some of the common reasons licenses are suspended. 

• Driving under the influence (DUI or DWI): DUI laws vary from state to state, but in many states, penalties for driving with a blood alcohol content over the legal limit can lead to immediate license suspension. Refusing to take a breathalyzer test in some states can also lead to a suspension.
  
  
• Accumulating too many traffic violation points: Every time you have a traffic violation it can lead to points accumulating on your license. This again varies by state, but in many states 12 points within a 12-month period can lead to a license suspension. Not all states use a point system, some states use different methods for tracking traffic violations. You can find more information on your state DMV website.
  
  
• Driving without insurance: In some states, in addition to fines, you can also face license suspension if you are caught driving without insurance or with insurance that doesn’t meet the legal minimum for your state. Learn more about the laws in your state here.
  
  
• Failing to pay traffic tickets or child support: As mentioned above, one of the most common reasons for license suspension is your inability to pay a fine, or in some cases, because of non-driving-related missed fees like child support payments or taxes. Failure to appear in court in certain cases can also lead to a suspension. 

If you have received notice that your license has been suspended, the first thing you need to do to get it reinstated is to find out why. Check your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website or contact them directly to confirm the reason and obtain your suspension details.

Step 2: Fulfill All Requirements

Each suspension comes with its own reinstatement requirements, which can vary based on where you live and the cause for suspension. Depending on your case, you may need to:

• Pay outstanding fines or tickets: If the reason your license was suspended is due to outstanding fines or payments, getting out of the red will be your first step to getting your license back.
  
  
• Complete required courses: If the reason for your suspension was too many traffic violations or points on your license, you may be required to take a defensive driving or safety course. If the reason for suspension was DWI, you might also be required to take a substance awareness course or complete alcohol treatment. Any education requirements will be provided by your DMV or court order.  
  
  
• Serve a mandatory suspension period: In some cases, the only thing you can do is wait. If your suspension is mandatory, you will have to wait until that time has passed before you can apply to be reinstated.
  
  
• Submit documentation: If the reason for your suspension was a lack of insurance, you will now need to provide proof of car insurance (and submit an SR-22 form in some states). You might also need to provide proof of completing any courses you were required to do. 
  
• Install an ignition interlock device (for DUI-related suspensions): Another requirement of some DUI cases is to require the driver to install a device to make sure they are under the legal limit before the car will turn on.

Step 3: Apply for Reinstatement

Once you’ve completed the necessary steps, you’ll need to formally request reinstatement of your license. This typically involves:

• Fill out a reinstatement application. This is usually available on the DMV’s website.
  
  
• Pay a reinstatement fee. In most states you will need to pay a reinstatement fee to get your license back. You can see what the average cost is in your state below. Keep in mind, there may be additional fees based on the reason for suspension.
  
  

• Provide any required documents. This is where you would provide necessary documentation such as receipts for payments, proof of insurance, course completion certificates, court receipts, etc.
  
  

Some states allow online reinstatement, while others may require you to submit documents by mail or go for an in-person visit to the DMV.

Step 4: Wait for DMV Approval

After submitting your reinstatement application and documentation, the DMV will review your case. If everything is in order, they’ll restore your driving privileges. If they have questions or need additional documentation, they may reach out. You may receive a new license, or your current one may be reactivated.

Step 5: Get Back on the Road (Legally)

Once your license is reinstated, you can get back to driving! Here’s what you need before you get back behind the wheel: 

• Make sure you carry valid insurance and registration.
  
  
• Follow any court-ordered or DMV-imposed conditions (e.g., ignition interlock use).
  
  
• Drive responsibly to avoid future issues.

Getting Insurance After Your License is Suspended

It is possible to get a license while your license is suspended, even though you can’t legally drive. It will likely be more expensive, and you will find fewer companies to choose from. You can learn more about getting insurance while your license is suspended here.

Having valid insurance is an important criterion for getting your license back. Once your license is back and you’re driving again, it’s also important to make sure you have valid insurance to keep from having your license suspended again. Find out which insurance companies provide the best insurance prices for those who have had a suspended license.

Wrapping Up

Getting your license back after a suspension isn’t always easy, but it’s possible with the right information and steps. Stay proactive, fulfill all requirements and be diligent about safe driving to protect your driving privileges in the future.

If you’re unsure about your specific situation, consider consulting a traffic attorney or contacting your state DMV for guidance tailored to your case.