How to Get Your Driver's License Back After a New Jersey DUI Conviction

 

After a DUI conviction in New Jersey, you will have to serve a driver’s license suspension as ordered by the court. Once the suspension is over, you will need to take steps to get your driver’s license reinstated.

 

The Process for Driver’s License Reinstatement in New Jersey

 

Before you can start the New Jersey Driver’s License Reinstatement process, you will first need to serve your suspension time, community service hours, and prison time, if applicable. Then you must pay all required fines and fees and complete classes at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center. If drug or alcohol treatment is required, you will also need to complete the 16-week minimum treatment program, and you may supplement the treatment with attendance at a self-help group. The Intoxicated Driving Resource Center will report any failures to comply with the New Jersey courts and the Motor Vehicle Commission, which can result in an extended driver’s license suspension or even jail time. The requirements for each case are a little different, so you can contact the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center to find out the specifics for your New Jersey DUI case:

Client Call Center Hotline:
1-609-588-7354
9 am – 5 pm, Monday thru Friday

Mailing Address:
Division of Addiction Services
Intoxicated Driving Program
PO BOX 365
Trenton, NJ 08625-0365
 

Once this is done, you will receive a Notice of Restoration in the mail. You must pay a $100 restoration fee online or at a MVC location and follow normal license renewal procedures. You can also mail a check or money order payable to:

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
P.O. Box 140
Trenton, NJ 08650-0140
 

You will also need to complete the steps for a driver’s license renewal, which may include taking the vision, written, and driving test again. You will have to pay all required fees for the driver’s license renewal. You will also be required to have an ignition interlock device on your vehicle.

 

Ignition Interlock Device

 

Depending on how many New Jersey DUI convictions you have on your record, you will be required to have an ignition interlock device on your car for six months to three years after your driver’s license is restored. The MVC will send you instructions on how to get a device, and you can also see a list of approved ignition interlock manufacturers on the website. The device attaches a breathalyzer to your car and prevents it from starting up if you blow a blood alcohol content over .05%. If you don’t have the device installed in your car as ordered, you will have your driving privileges suspended for another year. Additionally, you can face penalties if you tamper with or remove the device after installation. Any failed breathalyzer tests can affect your ability to get your driver’s license fully reinstated.

 

More Information about Driver’s License Reinstatement

 

You can learn more about Driving Under the Influence convictions and the penalties on the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission website. You can learn more about intoxicated driving program at (609) 588-8600, and you can learn more about suspensions and restorations after drunk driving at (609) 292-7500.

 

At times, people need additional information about their situation. You may have questions about the process or concerns that your driver’s license will not be reinstated. Restoration of your driving privileges is not automatic, and it can be more complicated if you have multiple DUI convictions or a case that involves a fatality. In these cases, it can be beneficial to consult with an experienced New Jersey DUI lawyer.