Your license does not automatically come back when the suspension period ends
When your suspension period is over, your license is not automatically restored. You have to take specific steps to get it back, and the steps depend on why your license was suspended in the first place. Some suspensions require you to pay a fee, some require you to pass a test, and some require both. If you do not complete these steps, you will still be driving illegally even though the calendar says your suspension is finished.
The good news is that the process is straightforward once you know what your state requires. Most people can complete it in one visit to the DMV or online, though a few situations take longer. This guide walks you through what to expect and what documents to bring.
Key Takeaways
- Contact your state's DMV before your suspension ends to find out exactly what you need to do to restore your license.
- Most suspensions require a reinstatement fee, which varies by state and by reason for suspension.
- Some suspensions require you to pass a written test, a driving test, or both before your license is restored.
- You must complete all required steps before you can legally drive again, even after the suspension period itself has ended.
- Many states now allow you to start the reinstatement process online or by mail, though you may still need to visit the DMV in person.
Find out what your specific state requires before the suspension ends
Different states have different reinstatement requirements, and the reason for your suspension matters too. A suspension for unpaid traffic fines has different steps than a suspension for a DUI conviction. The only way to know for certain what you need to do is to contact your state's DMV directly.
Call the DMV customer service line or visit your state's DMV website and search for "license reinstatement" or "suspension reinstatement." You should be able to find a page that lists the requirements for your specific type of suspension. Write down or print out the exact steps, the fee amount, and any documents you will need to bring. Do this while you still have time before the suspension ends — do not wait until the last day.
If you cannot find the information online, call the DMV and give them your driver's license number. They can tell you over the phone what you need to do and how much it will cost. Some states also send you a letter when your suspension is about to end, but do not count on receiving one — contact them yourself to be sure.
Pay the reinstatement fee
Almost every suspension requires a reinstatement fee. This is a separate charge from any fines you may have already paid. The fee covers the cost of processing your reinstatement and restoring your license to active status. Reinstatement fees vary widely by state — some are under $100, others are several hundred dollars. The fee may also be higher if your suspension was for a serious violation like a DUI.
You can usually pay the fee online through your state's DMV website, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. Some states require you to pay before you can schedule a test or visit the DMV. Others let you pay at the same time you complete the other steps. Check your state's requirements to see which method applies to you.
Keep your receipt or confirmation number. You will need to show proof of payment when you complete the rest of the reinstatement process.
Pass any required written or driving test
Depending on why your license was suspended, you may have to pass a written test, a road test, or both. A suspension for medical reasons, for example, often requires a medical evaluation and sometimes a road test to show you are safe to drive again. A suspension for too many points on your record may require a written test on traffic laws. A DUI suspension almost always requires both a written test and a road test.
If a test is required, your state's DMV will tell you which one and how to schedule it. You can usually schedule online or by phone. The written test is similar to the permit test you took when you first learned to drive — it covers traffic laws and safe driving. The road test is similar to the driving test you took to get your original license.
You do not have to pass on your first try, but you will have to pay a fee each time you take a test. Most people pass on the first or second attempt. Study the driver's manual for your state before you test, just as you would have when you were learning to drive.
Complete any other requirements for your suspension type
Some suspensions come with additional requirements beyond the fee and tests. If your suspension was for a DUI, you may have to show proof that you completed an alcohol education program or a substance abuse treatment program. If your suspension was for unpaid child support, you may have to show proof that you have made a payment or set up a payment plan. If your suspension was for unpaid traffic fines, you may have to pay those fines before your license is restored.
Your state's DMV will list all of these requirements when you contact them about reinstatement. Do not skip any of them — your license will not be restored until you have completed everything on the list. If you are unsure whether you have met a requirement, contact the DMV again and ask them to confirm.
Visit the DMV or complete reinstatement online
Once you have paid the fee and passed any required tests, you are ready to complete the final reinstatement step. Some states now allow you to finish the entire process online. Others require you to visit a DMV office in person, though you may be able to do some steps online first.
If you are visiting in person, bring your driver's license, your proof of payment for the reinstatement fee, proof of any tests you passed, and proof of any other requirements you completed. Bring your Social Security number and a form of ID if your license has expired. The DMV staff will review your documents, confirm that you have met all the requirements, and issue you a new license or a temporary license while your permanent one is being printed.
If you are completing the process online, follow the steps on your state's DMV website. You will upload your documents and pay any remaining fees. Your state will then mail your new license to you. This usually takes one to two weeks.
Understand what happens if you drive before reinstatement is complete
Driving while your license is still suspended is illegal, even if the suspension period itself has ended and you are in the process of getting reinstated. If you are pulled over, you can be ticketed for driving with a suspended license. This is a separate violation from the original reason your license was suspended, and it can result in additional fines, points on your record, or even jail time depending on your state and how many times you have done it before.
Wait until you have your new license in hand or until your state has confirmed online that your license is active again. If you need to drive before the reinstatement process is complete, ask someone else to drive you or use another form of transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive during the reinstatement process if my suspension period has ended?
No. Your license remains suspended until you have completed all reinstatement steps and received your new license or confirmation that it is active. Driving during this time is illegal and can result in additional charges.
What if I cannot afford the reinstatement fee?
Some states offer payment plans for reinstatement fees, though not all do. Contact your DMV to ask whether a payment plan is available for your situation. If not, you may be able to request a fee waiver if you can show financial hardship, though approval is not may provide.
How long does reinstatement usually take?
If you complete everything in person at the DMV, you can often get a temporary license the same day and your permanent license within one to two weeks. If you do it by mail or online, the entire process usually takes two to four weeks. Some states are faster or slower depending on how busy they are.
Do I have to retake the written permit test to get my license back?
Only if your state requires it for your specific type of suspension. Not all suspensions require a test. Contact your DMV to find out whether a test is required for you.
What if I fail the required test?
You can take the test again, but you will have to pay the test fee each time. Most states let you schedule another test within a few days. Study the driver's manual before your next attempt, and consider taking a practice test online to prepare.