DUI Suspended License Reinstatement by State

Having the ability to drive a vehicle is important and necessary for many people. Most need their vehicles to get to work, school, childcare, or important medical appointments. It's essential if you live in an area without public transportation. For some, being able to drive represents freedom.

But driving is a privilege. When we get a driver's license, we agree to obey the law and drive safely. The state can suspend or revoke our license when we violate this privilege.

Types of Suspensions

Driver's license suspensions happen for many reasons. You may have gotten several traffic tickets and now have too many points on your driving record. Failing to appear in court as ordered can cost you your license. You can also lose your license if you're not paying court-ordered child support. One of the more serious triggers for a license suspension is driving under the influence (DUI) conviction.

Generally, you can restore your driving privileges by following all court orders and paying any required fees by the end of your suspension period. Your requirements and costs will depend on the type of suspension you earned.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

One of the most common types of driver's license suspension is due to a driving while intoxicated (DWI) or DUI charge. A DUI conviction carries many penalties. The most immediate is losing your driving privileges. You may lose your driving privileges at the time of your arrest if you refuse chemical testing or if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is at or above the state legal limit. You may face a second license suspension if convicted of a DUI offense.

Your suspension or revocation period will vary depending on:

• The circumstances of your charge
• Whether it's a traffic infraction, misdemeanor, or felony
• Your BAC level
• Your cooperation with chemical testing
• Whether this is your first DUI, second offense, or more

License Suspension Basics

Most states require you to complete a substance abuse treatment program or education course. You must pay all fines and present proof of financial responsibility to the state. Finally, you must contact an insurance company that issues SR-22 insurance policies.

Most states offer a limited, hardship, or restricted license that allows you to drive to work or school, maintain childcare, or attend medical or treatment appointments. These limited privileges require installing an ignition interlock device (IID).

A few states have specialized DUI license plates you must display on all vehicles registered to you.

Suspension or Revocation?

Though sometimes used interchangeably, a license revocation differs from a license suspension. While both mean you can't drive for some time, getting your privileges back differs from a revocation.

When your license gets suspended, your state department of motor vehicles or the agency in charge of driver's licenses holds your license until you meet specific requirements.

If your privileges are revoked, the state cancels your license. You must complete your reinstatement requirements and retake your driving tests to earn a new license.

Administrative License Suspension

Administrative license suspension is typically related to a DUI/DWI charge. It begins shortly after your DUI arrest. An administrative suspension is separate from your criminal charge. You must serve this suspension regardless of the outcome of your court case.

If your suspension is administrative and not criminal, you may request an administrative hearing. At this hearing, you can contest your license suspension. The police officer involved in your arrest will also present evidence before the hearing officer rules. Your suspension period begins after this hearing unless you waive it.

DUI Suspended License Reinstatement by State: Overview

Below, you will find key information on suspended license reinstatement laws by state. Remember that reinstatement fees and requirements are subject to change in each state with the passage of new legislation. You may wish to speak with a local attorney or your state's department of motor vehicles (DMV) to learn more about your situation.

Note: State laws can change through legislative, judicial, or other means. While FindLaw works hard to ensure the accuracy of its legal resources, it's a good idea to thoroughly research the law or check with an attorney to ensure you have the most recent information.

A Note About Zero Tolerance Laws and Commercial Driver's Licenses

This chart details the basic license suspension information if you're over 21 years of age and not operating under a commercial driver's license (CDL). Legal blood alcohol levels vary for commercial drivers and for those under 21.

All states have a version of a zero-tolerance law, which covers those under 21. If you have a trace amount of alcohol in your system, you may face license suspensions. You may also need to complete DUI education or treatment.

If you operate a commercial vehicle, you must abide by strict regulations. Generally, you face a DUI/DWI charge if your BAC is 0.04% or more. Many CDLs also require you to cooperate with a breathalyzer and chemical testing, or you will face permanent loss of your commercial driver's license.

Get Help With Your DUI Suspended License: Contact a Lawyer

If you're charged with a DUI or DWI and face a suspended license, you'll need solid legal advice to help you through the ordeal. A DUI is a serious charge that can result in jail time, huge fines, and participation in DUI programs. The good news is that legal advocates in your area can guide you through the laws and procedures you must follow. Start the process today by meeting with a DUI defense attorney near you.