Start with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) is the state agency that suspended your license, and it is also the first place to call. They maintain your driving record, know exactly why your license was suspended, and can tell you what steps you need to take to get it back. You can reach them at 1-850-617-3800 during business hours, Monday through Friday.

When you call, have your driver's license number ready. The DHSMV staff will confirm the suspension reason, tell you whether there are fines or fees owed, and explain what documents or actions are required before you can request reinstatement. Some suspensions require you to complete a course, pay a reinstatement fee, or resolve an underlying issue (like a traffic ticket or unpaid child support) before the state will lift the suspension.

If you prefer not to call, you can also visit the DHSMV website at flhsmv.gov and use their online services to check your driving record. The website shows suspension status and some reinstatement requirements, though a phone call often gets you clearer answers about your specific situation.

Key Takeaways

  • The Florida DHSMV suspended your license and is the only agency that can reinstate it, so they are your first call at 1-850-617-3800.
  • Different suspension reasons require different actions — some need a fee payment, others need a course completion or resolution of a court case.
  • If your suspension is tied to unpaid child support or criminal court fines, you may need to contact the court or child support office before DHSMV will reinstate you.
  • An attorney who handles traffic or administrative law can help you understand your options if the suspension seems incorrect or if reinstatement requirements are unclear.

Contact the Court If Your Suspension Is Tied to a Traffic Conviction

If your license was suspended because of a traffic conviction — such as a DUI, reckless driving, or accumulating too many points — the court that handled your case may have additional requirements. Some courts require you to show proof of completion of a defensive driving course or substance abuse program before the DHSMV will reinstate you.

Find the court by searching for the county where you received the ticket or were convicted. Call the traffic division or criminal division (depending on the charge) and ask whether there are any outstanding requirements tied to your case. The court clerk can tell you whether you need a certificate of completion, a letter from the judge, or proof of payment before you contact DHSMV.

Call the Child Support Enforcement Office If Suspension Is Related to Unpaid Support

Florida suspends licenses for unpaid child support or alimony. If that is your suspension reason, the Florida Department of Revenue, Child Support Enforcement office holds the key to reinstatement. You cannot get your license back until you resolve the arrearage or set up a payment plan with them.

Contact the Child Support Enforcement office at 1-800-622-5437. They will tell you the exact amount owed and what payment or arrangement will allow DHSMV to lift the suspension. Once you have made a payment or agreed to a plan, the office will notify DHSMV, and your reinstatement can proceed. This process usually takes a few days to a week after the office sends the notice to the state.

Reach Out to Your County Clerk If You Have Outstanding Court Fines or Fees

Some suspensions result from unpaid court fines, restitution, or other financial obligations from a criminal or traffic case. The county clerk's office that issued the fine can tell you the balance and accept payment. Once you pay, ask the clerk to send a notice to DHSMV confirming the payment, or ask whether you need to request reinstatement yourself.

Find your county clerk by searching "[your county name] clerk of court" online. Most clerk offices have a traffic or criminal division that handles these payments. You can often pay by phone, online, or in person, depending on the county.

Contact a Traffic Attorney If You Believe the Suspension Is Incorrect

If you think your license was suspended by mistake — for example, if you paid a ticket but DHSMV still shows it unpaid, or if you completed a required course but the state has no record — an attorney who handles traffic or administrative law can investigate and file a challenge on your behalf.

You can find a traffic attorney through the Florida Bar's lawyer referral service at floridabar.org or by searching "traffic attorney near me." Many offer a free initial consultation. An attorney can also help if you want to contest the suspension itself or negotiate a reduced penalty with the court.

Use the DHSMV License Reinstatement Services If You Are Ready to Restore Your Driving Privilege

Once you have resolved the underlying issue — paid fines, completed a course, or settled child support — you can request reinstatement through DHSMV. You can do this online at flhsmv.gov, by mail, or in person at a local DHSMV office. Most online reinstatements are processed within a few business days.

You will need to pay a reinstatement fee, which varies depending on the suspension reason but typically ranges from $25 to $150. Have your driver's license number and a payment method ready. Once DHSMV processes your reinstatement, you will receive a new license in the mail or can pick it up at a local office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive while my license is suspended?

No. Driving with a suspended license is a separate criminal offense in Florida and can result in additional fines, jail time, and a longer suspension. Even if you believe the suspension is a mistake, you cannot legally drive until DHSMV officially lifts it.

How long does reinstatement take after I resolve the issue?

Online reinstatement through DHSMV usually takes three to five business days. If you mail in your request or go in person, it may take one to two weeks. If your suspension is tied to child support or court fines, allow extra time for the other agency to notify DHSMV before you request reinstatement.

What if I cannot afford the reinstatement fee?

DHSMV does not waive reinstatement fees, but some counties offer payment plans or fee reductions for hardship. Call DHSMV at 1-850-617-3800 and ask whether your situation qualifies for a plan. If your suspension is tied to child support, the Child Support Enforcement office may also discuss payment arrangements.

Do I need a lawyer to get my license back?

You do not need a lawyer for most straightforward reinstatements — paying a fee or completing a course is usually enough. However, a lawyer can help if the suspension appears to be an error, if you want to challenge it, or if the underlying issue (like a court case) is complex.

What if DHSMV says I still owe money after I paid?

Ask DHSMV for a detailed breakdown of what they show as unpaid. If you have a receipt proving payment, send a copy to DHSMV along with a written request to correct their records. If the discrepancy is not resolved within two weeks, contact a traffic attorney or file a complaint with the Florida Attorney General's office.