Reinstating a Driver’s License
There are a large amount of offenses that may result in a driver’s license being suspended. These range anywhere from unpaid traffic violations to DUI arrests. No matter the reasoning, many are left wondering how to get to work, doctor’s appointments, and even their court ordered addiction group meetings (as in a DUI). There may be something you can do to better your situation. Potentially, you may be eligible to have your driver’s license reinstated.
Actions That Can Get Your License Taken Away
There are multiple reasons why a license could be suspended or revoked. Each of them come with a written notification from the Secretary of State ordering a surrender of the license. These offenses include:
- Three moving traffic violations within 12 months;
- Failure to appear in court for a traffic violation;
- Ten or more unpaid parking violations;
- Failure to pay court ordered child support;
- Failure to pay five or more tollway violations;
- Conviction at fault of a traffic accident without having insurance; and
- Conviction of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or controlled substances.
If you are facing suspension, the Secretary of State does require either a formal or informal hearing. At this time, your privileges may be restored fully, you may be given a restricted driving permit, or you may, in fact, lose the license for the ordered suspension period.
How to Get Your License Reinstated
In the event that your license has been suspended, it is not recommended to take the risk of getting caught driving on a suspended license. This can result in several outcomes ranging from the lengthening of your suspension all the way to seizure of your vehicle. Yet, remember that a suspension is temporary and you will need to go through a reinstatement process at the termination of the suspension period.
First, you will need to request a hearing from a Secretary of State hearing officer. Depending on the severity of your case, it may be either informal or formal. If the offense was fatal or included multiple DUIs, it will be a formal hearing that you will request. Informal requests may be made at a hearing officer facility location. However, formal requests must be in writing to the Secretary of State. This request must include the Formal Hearing Request Form as well as a $50.00 filing fee. You will then be notified by mail when and where your hearing will take place.
At the time of the hearing, in order for reinstatement to be approved, the following must have occurred:
- All suspensions and revocations must be closed;
- A $250.00 reinstatement fee must be paid to the Secretary of State;
- Repeat offenders must pay a $500.00 reinstatement fee; and
- Reinstatement only occurs after it has been filed under the driver’s record at the Secretary of State’s office.
If you are facing a suspension or already have your license suspended and would like to have it reinstated, you need an experienced attorney to fight for your rights. Here at Stringini & Garvey, P.C., we understand that you rely on your vehicle to provide for yourself and your family, and we are here to assist you in keeping that privilege. If you would like to contact a dedicated Cook County criminal defense attorney, do not hesitate to call us at 630-834-9595 for your free consultation.
Sources:
http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/BAIID/reinstate.html
https://www.dmv.org/il-illinois/suspended-license.php
