How to Reinstate Your Louisiana Driver's License

What You Need to Do to Get Your License Back in Louisiana

To reinstate your Louisiana driver's license, you must first find out why it was suspended or revoked, then complete the specific steps tied to that reason. The Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) does not reinstate licenses automatically — you have to request reinstatement and meet all conditions before your driving privileges return. The reason for suspension determines whether you need to pay a fee, complete a course, obtain an SR22 form, or wait out a mandatory period.

You can check your license status and suspension reason online through the Louisiana OMV website, by phone at 225-925-6146, or in person at any OMV office. Knowing the exact reason is the first step because the reinstatement path is different for suspension due to unpaid traffic fines, DUI, points accumulation, or failure to maintain insurance.

Key Takeaways

Your suspension reason determines what you must do to reinstate — check your status with the Louisiana OMV before taking any steps.
Most reinstatements require a fee paid to the OMV, and some require proof of insurance or an SR22 form filed with the state.
DUI suspensions have mandatory waiting periods and often require completion of a substance abuse program before reinstatement is possible.
You can request reinstatement online, by mail, or in person at an OMV office once all conditions are met.

Suspension Due to Unpaid Traffic Fines or Court Costs

If your license was suspended because you did not pay a traffic ticket, fine, or court cost, you must pay the full amount owed before the OMV will reinstate you. Contact the court that issued the ticket to confirm the exact amount due, including any collection fees or interest that may have been added. Once you pay, ask the court for written confirmation or a receipt showing the debt is cleared.

After the court confirms payment, you can request reinstatement from the OMV. You will need to pay the reinstatement fee, which varies depending on how long your license has been suspended. Bring your confirmation from the court, your driver's license or ID, and proof of payment to an OMV office, or submit these documents by mail to the address listed on the OMV website.

Suspension for Accumulating Too Many Points

Louisiana suspends licenses when a driver accumulates 12 or more points within a 12-month period. Points stay on your record for three years from the date of the violation. If you were suspended for points, you must wait out a mandatory suspension period — typically 30 days for a first suspension, 60 days for a second, and longer for subsequent suspensions.

Once the mandatory waiting period has passed, you can request reinstatement by paying the reinstatement fee and submitting a request to the OMV. Some OMV offices may require you to pass a written test or vision test before reinstatement. Contact your local OMV office to confirm what is required in your case, as requirements can vary by office location.

DUI Suspension and Reinstatement Requirements

A DUI conviction in Louisiana results in a mandatory license suspension that cannot be shortened or waived. The length of suspension depends on whether it is your first offense and whether anyone was injured. A first DUI suspension typically lasts 90 days to one year; a second DUI within ten years results in a suspension of one to three years.

Before you can reinstate after a DUI suspension, you must complete a substance abuse program approved by the Louisiana Department of Health. You will also need to obtain an SR22 form (also called a Certificate of Financial Responsibility) from your insurance company and file it with the OMV. The SR22 proves you carry the minimum required liability insurance. Your insurance company will file this form on your behalf once you purchase a policy; you do not file it yourself.

After the mandatory suspension period ends and you have completed the substance abuse program, bring your program completion certificate and proof that your SR22 is on file to an OMV office. You will pay the reinstatement fee and your license will be restored.

Suspension for Driving Without Insurance

If your license was suspended because you were caught driving without the required liability insurance, you must obtain insurance before reinstatement. Louisiana requires a minimum of 15/30/25 liability coverage (15,000 dollars bodily injury per person, 30,000 dollars per accident, 25,000 dollars property damage). Purchase a policy from any licensed Louisiana insurance company and ask your agent to file an SR22 form with the OMV.

Once the SR22 is filed, you can request reinstatement by paying the reinstatement fee and submitting proof of insurance to the OMV. You can do this in person at an OMV office or by mail. Keep a copy of your insurance card and SR22 receipt for your records. Your SR22 must remain on file for three years; if your insurance lapses during that time, your license will be suspended again.

How to Request Reinstatement

You have three ways to request reinstatement from the Louisiana OMV: online through the OMV website, by mail, or in person at an OMV office. The online method is fastest if all your documents are in order and you can pay by credit or debit card. You will need your driver's license number, the reason for suspension, and proof that you have met all reinstatement conditions.

If you request reinstatement by mail, send your completed reinstatement request form (available on the OMV website), the reinstatement fee, and copies of any required documents to the address listed on the form. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if you want the OMV to return your original documents. Processing by mail typically takes two to four weeks.

Requesting reinstatement in person at an OMV office is also an option and usually results in when ready processing if all documents are correct. Bring your driver's license, proof of meeting all conditions (paid fines, insurance proof, program completion certificate, or SR22 filing confirmation), and the reinstatement fee. Some offices accept cash, check, or card; confirm payment methods before you visit.

Reinstatement Fees and Costs

The Louisiana OMV charges a reinstatement fee that depends on how long your license has been suspended. A suspension of less than one year typically costs around 100 to 150 dollars; longer suspensions cost more. The exact fee is listed on the OMV website and can also be confirmed by calling 225-925-6146.

In addition to the reinstatement fee, you may have other costs: unpaid traffic fines, substance abuse program tuition (for DUI cases), or insurance premiums (for driving without insurance cases). These are separate from the reinstatement fee and must be paid before or at the time you request reinstatement. Budget for all costs before you begin the process so you are not delayed by unexpected expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive on a provisional or learner's permit while my license is suspended?

No. A suspension revokes all driving privileges, including the right to hold a learner's permit or provisional license. You cannot drive legally in any capacity until your license is reinstated. Driving during suspension is a separate criminal offense and will result in additional penalties.

How long does reinstatement take after I submit my request?

Online requests are usually processed within one to three business days. In-person requests at an OMV office are often processed the same day if all documents are correct. Mail requests take two to four weeks. Processing time can be longer if documents are incomplete or if the OMV needs to verify information with courts or insurance companies.

What if I move out of state while my license is suspended?

You must still reinstate your Louisiana license before you can legally drive in Louisiana again, even if you have obtained a license in another state. If you plan to move permanently, you may want to reinstate first, then transfer your license to your new state. Contact the OMV to discuss your situation if you are unsure.

Do I need a new photo and vision test when I reinstate?

Not always. Most reinstatements do not require a new photo or vision test unless your license has expired or the OMV specifically requires one based on your suspension reason. Contact your local OMV office or check the reinstatement instructions to confirm what is required in your case.

What happens if I drive before my reinstatement is approved?

Driving with a suspended license is a criminal offense in Louisiana. You can face fines, jail time, and additional license suspension. Do not drive until you receive written confirmation from the OMV that your license has been reinstated.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.