Steps to Fix a Suspended License in Florida
You may feel that getting your license reinstated is an impossibility. If your license is suspended and you are trying to get it cleared and reinstated here are some steps you can take to get started. In Florida, in order to get your license reinstated you must first figure why your license was suspended.
Below are steps on how to check your driver’s license status, fix the issue causing the suspension, and legally reinstate your driving privileges.
Step 1: Check Your Official Driving Record
Use the Online Portal: Visit the official Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) Driver License Check.
Enter Your Details: Input your driver's license number to see your current eligibility status.
Identify the Requirements: The system will explicitly list what is clearing your status and what specific requirements you must meet to reinstate it.
Order a full transcript of your Driving Record: If you have multiple issues in multiple counties, you can order your complete driving history record to check for accuracy. This can be done at your local DMV office in.
Step 2: Fix the Issue
Florida suspends licenses for several reasons. Determine your specific issue below to see your next steps:
Failure to Pay a Traffic Ticket
Contact the Clerk of Court: You must contact the specific county traffic clerk where the ticket was issued.
Pay the Fines: Pay all outstanding tickets, late fees, and court costs.
Get a Compliance Form: Request a "School Completion" or "D6 Court Compliance" form from the clerk.
Lapsed Auto Insurance (Financial Responsibility)
Purchase Valid Insurance: Contact an auto insurance provider to establish a current policy that meets Florida's minimum property damage and bodily injury liability limits.
Have the Insurer File Digital Proof: Ensure your insurance company submits proof of coverage digitally to the FLHSMV.
Pay the Reinstatement Fee: This fee scales based on prior offenses ($150 for a first offense, $250 for a second, and $500 for subsequent offenses).
Accumulation of Points
Check Your Point Total: Florida suspends licenses for 30 days if you reach 12 points in 12 months, 3 months for 18 points in 18 months, and 1 year for 24 points in 36 months.
Enroll in a Course: You may need to complete an approved Advanced Driver Improvement (ADI) course.
Apply for a Hardship License: If eligible, you can apply for a restricted license for employment or business purposes during your suspension period. You will need to contact the Bureau of Administrative Review to schedule a hardship hearing.
Child Support Delinquency
Contact the Department of Revenue: Reach out to the Florida Department of Revenue or the domestic relations court handling your case.
Enter an Agreement: Pay the delinquency in full or establish an official, signed payment agreement.
Submit an Affidavit: Secure an official affidavit or compliance form showing you have met your support obligations.
DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
If you have been convicted for DUI under Florida State Statute 316.193 there are certain requirements that will need to be satisfied before you can reinstate your license and restore your driving privileges.
Complete DUI School: Enroll in and complete an approved DUI program.
File an SR-22/FR-44: Have your insurance company file an FR-44 form showing the required liability insurance limits.
Wait Out the Period: Serve the mandatory administrative or court-ordered suspension period before seeking reinstatement.
Step 3: Pay the FLHSMV Reinstatement Fees
Once you have cleared up the issue, you must pay the state of Florida to officially reinstate your license. Fees can vary greatly depending on the violation:
D6/Traffic Ticket Reinstatement: $60
Child Support Reinstatement: $60
Insurance Suspension Reinstatement: $150 to $500
DUI Reinstatement: $130
Step 4: Present Proof and Reinstate
Take your court compliance forms, affidavits, or proof of insurance to your nearest FLHSMV office or local tax collector's office. Many tax collectors act as agents for the FLHSMV and can process your reinstatement on the spot. Once your paperwork is verified and fees are paid, your driving privilege will be restored.
If you have been arrested for violation Florida State Statute 322.34 Driving While License Suspended or Revoked, we provide free consultations (727-330-7800) for cases in Pinellas County, Pasco County, and Hillsborough County, and Venessa Bornost, P.A. can assist with your court case.