What you need depends on why your license was suspended

The steps to unsuspend your license are different for each reason your license was suspended. A suspension for unpaid traffic fines requires you to pay those fines and file paperwork with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). A suspension for failing an alcohol test requires you to complete a substance abuse program and sometimes install an ignition interlock device. A suspension for accumulating too many points requires you to wait out a waiting period, sometimes take a defensive driving course, and then file a reinstatement request.

Your first step is to contact your state's DMV directly — by phone, in person, or through their website — and ask for the specific reason your license was suspended and the exact steps to unsuspend it. The DMV will give you a list of what you owe, what you must complete, and what forms you need to file. Do not rely on a third party to tell you this; the DMV's answer is the only one that matters.

Key Takeaways

  • Contact your state's DMV first to learn the exact reason for your suspension and the specific steps required to unsuspend it.
  • Most suspensions require you to pay fines, complete a program or course, or both before you can file for reinstatement.
  • You will usually need to file a reinstatement request form with the DMV and pay a reinstatement fee, which varies by state and reason.
  • Some suspensions have a mandatory waiting period before you can even file for reinstatement, so ask the DMV whether you must wait.
  • Proof of insurance (an SR22 or standard policy) is often required before your reinstatement is approved, especially for alcohol-related suspensions.

Paying fines and court costs

If your license was suspended for unpaid traffic fines or court costs, you must pay what you owe before the DMV will unsuspend your license. Contact the court that issued the ticket or fine — not the DMV — to find out the exact amount due and where to send payment. Some courts accept payment by phone, online, or by mail; others require you to appear in person.

Once you have paid, ask the court for written proof of payment. Keep this proof and bring it with you when you file your reinstatement request with the DMV, or send it along with your reinstatement form. The DMV will not process your reinstatement until the court confirms the debt is cleared.

Completing required programs and courses

Alcohol-related suspensions almost always require you to complete a substance abuse program before you can unsuspend your license. The program length and type vary by state and by the severity of your offense. Some states require a short educational program; others require a longer treatment program. Your state's DMV will tell you which programs are approved in your area and how long each one takes.

You must attend the program, complete all sessions, and obtain a certificate of completion from the program provider. Bring this certificate with you when you file your reinstatement request. Some states also require you to pass an alcohol screening test before unsuspending your license; the program provider can tell you whether this applies to you.

If your suspension was for accumulating too many points, your state may require you to take a defensive driving course. This is usually a one-day or online course that costs between $20 and $100. The course provider will give you a certificate when you finish; you will need this for your reinstatement request.

Installing an ignition interlock device

Some states require you to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle before your license can be unsuspended, especially after a DUI or DWI suspension. An IID is a breathalyzer connected to your car's ignition; you must blow into it before the car will start, and it will not start if it detects alcohol on your breath.

You must have the device installed by a certified provider in your state. The DMV will give you a list of approved providers. Installation usually costs $100 to $200, and you will pay a monthly monitoring fee of $50 to $100 while the device is in your car. Some states require you to keep the device installed for three months to a year before you can remove it.

Once installed, the provider will give you proof of installation. Bring this proof with your reinstatement request. The DMV will not unsuspend your license until they confirm the device is in place.

Filing your reinstatement request and paying the fee

After you have completed all required steps — paid fines, finished programs, installed devices — you must file a reinstatement request with your state's DMV. Most states offer this form online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. The form is usually called a "License Reinstatement Request" or "Suspension Removal Request."

Include with your reinstatement request proof of everything you have completed: proof of payment, certificates of completion, proof of IID installation, and any other documents the DMV listed. The DMV will review your request and either unsuspend your license or tell you what is still missing.

Most states charge a reinstatement fee, which varies from $50 to $300 depending on the state and the reason for suspension. Pay this fee when you file your reinstatement request. Some states will not process your request until the fee is received.

Proof of insurance before reinstatement

Before the DMV will unsuspend your license, especially for alcohol-related or reckless driving suspensions, you will usually need to show proof of car insurance. This is called an SR22 in most states (some states call it a different name, like an FR44 in Florida).

An SR22 is a form your insurance company files with the DMV on your behalf. It certifies that you have the minimum liability insurance required by your state. You do not file it yourself; you ask your insurance company to file it. The insurance company charges a fee (usually $15 to $50) to file the SR22, and this fee is in addition to your regular insurance premium.

Contact your current insurance company and ask them to file an SR22. If you do not have insurance, you will need to buy a policy first. Once your insurance company files the SR22, the DMV will receive it electronically. You can then file your reinstatement request, and the DMV will see that your SR22 is on file.

Waiting periods before you can file

Some suspensions have a mandatory waiting period. You cannot file for reinstatement until this period has passed, even if you have completed all other requirements. For example, some states require you to wait 30 days, 90 days, or six months before you can file, depending on the reason for suspension.

Ask the DMV when your waiting period ends. Mark this date on your calendar. You can complete your programs, pay your fines, and arrange your insurance before the waiting period ends, so that you are ready to file your reinstatement request the moment the period is over.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for the DMV to unsuspend my license after I file my reinstatement request?

Processing time varies by state, from one week to several weeks. Some states process requests faster if you file in person at a DMV office. Contact your state's DMV to ask how long they typically take, and ask whether you can check the status of your request online or by phone.

Can I drive while my license is suspended if I have a work permit?

A work permit (sometimes called a "hardship license" or "restricted license") allows you to drive only for specific purposes like work, school, or medical appointments. You must carry the permit with you while driving. Ask the DMV whether a work permit is available for your type of suspension and what you must do to get one.

What if I cannot afford the reinstatement fee or the IID installation cost?

Some states offer fee waivers or payment plans for people with low income. Contact your state's DMV and ask whether you are may be able to access. You may also ask the court that suspended your license whether they can reduce or waive fees. Do not ignore the suspension; the longer you wait, the more penalties may accumulate.

Do I need to take a driving test to unsuspend my license?

Most states do not require a new driving test for reinstatement. However, some states require a written test or vision test. Ask the DMV whether a test is required for your type of suspension and whether you can take it at the same time you file your reinstatement request.

What happens if I drive with a suspended license?

Driving with a suspended license is a crime in every state. You can be arrested, fined, and your license suspension can be extended. If you are caught, the court may also require you to complete additional programs or install an IID. Do not drive until your license is unsuspended.