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Restoring a Suspended Drivers License
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Restoring a Suspended Driver’s License
Having your driver’s license suspended can be extremely disruptive to your daily life. Without the ability to legally drive, tasks like getting to work, school, or running errands become much more difficult. Fortunately, in most cases, a suspended license can eventually be restored if you follow the proper procedures. Here is some helpful information on getting your suspended license back so you can drive again.
Reasons for Suspension
There are a variety of reasons why your license may have been suspended in the first place. Common causes include:
- Accumulating too many points on your license from traffic violations like speeding tickets
- Failure to pay traffic fines or appear in court for a traffic citation
- Failure to provide proof of insurance after being pulled over
- Failure to pay child support
- Certain drug or alcohol related convictions like DUI
- Medical conditions that impact your ability to drive safely
The reason for your suspension will impact what steps you need to take to have your license reinstated.
Reinstatement Requirements
The requirements to get your license back will depend on why it was suspended in the first place. Here are some typical reinstatement steps:
Traffic Violations
If your license was suspended due to too many points from traffic tickets, you will likely have to complete a state approved driver improvement course. These defensive driving classes range from 4 to 12 hours. You will need to submit your course completion certificate to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You may also need to pay a license reinstatement fee which can range from $45 to $500 depending on the offense.
Failure to Pay Fines
For suspensions due to unpaid tickets or missed court dates, you will need to resolve any outstanding fines or appearances. Once your record is clear, you can pay the reinstatement fee and have your license restored. Clerks of court in Florida are encouraged to hold Driver License Reinstatement Days where some fees may be reduced or waived to help drivers get back on the road.
Insurance Violations
If you were driving without insurance, you will need to show proof of valid policy before your license can be reinstated. You may also need to pay a fee.
Child Support
For child support related suspensions, you must contact the Department of Revenue and work out a payment plan. Once you have an agreement in place, you can pay the reinstatement fee and have your license restored.
DUI Convictions
For suspensions tied to a DUI conviction, requirements get more stringent. You will need to complete DUI school, and possibly alcohol evaluation and treatment if it was recommended. You must show proof of completion of all required programs before license reinstatement.
Hardship Licenses
If being without a license poses an extreme hardship for work, school, or medical care, you may apply for a hardship license. This restricted license allows you to drive to specific locations during certain times. You generally need to show proof of insurance, completion of traffic school if required, and pay the applicable fees to get approved.
The Reinstatement Process
Once you have completed all the requirements and paid any fees, you can start the reinstatement process. You will need to submit your paperwork and proof of completion for any required courses or programs to the DMV. If approved, your driving privileges will be restored. However, some offenses like DUIs will remain on your record and impact your insurance rates.
Regaining Suspended License Out of State
If your Florida license was suspended but you moved out of state, you will need to go through Florida’s reinstatement process first before applying for a new license where you live. Requirements must be met and fees paid in Florida before another state will issue you a license.
Avoiding Suspension
The best way to avoid a suspended license is to always drive safely and responsibly. Follow traffic laws, pay attention, limit distractions, and do not drive impaired. Also, make sure to get traffic citations taken care of quickly by paying fines or appearing in court to prevent further issues. Having a suspended license removed can be time consuming and costly. So it is best to take steps to keep your driving record clean.
Getting Legal Help
Trying to navigate the reinstatement process on your own can be complicated. An attorney that specializes in traffic violations and license suspensions can help guide you through the requirements. They can also represent you at administrative hearings related to your driving privileges. Having an experienced lawyer on your side can smooth the path to getting your license restored.
Losing your driving privileges can negatively impact many aspects of your life. But in most cases, licenses can be reinstated by following the proper procedures. Understanding the reasons for your suspension, completing any required steps, and paying fees can get you back on the road. With some time and effort, you can resolve license issues and continue safely operating a motor vehicle. Just be sure to drive responsibly going forward to avoid risking your driving record and freedom in the future.