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

 

Have you been convicted of a Virginia DUI? Then it’s likely that getting your driver’s license back is at the top of your priority list. It can be an incredible hardship, causing problems in all areas of your life. Unfortunately, reinstatement of your driver’s license isn’t automatic, so you will have to learn the steps you must take to get your driving privileges back once your suspension period is over.

 

Process for Driver’s License Reinstatement in Virginia

 

After your conviction, you will be given a compliance summary. Here you will find telephone numbers for the courts you should contact to find out how much you owe the courts in unpaid fines and court costs. If you don’t have a compliance summary, you can complete a free Compliance Summary Request from the DMV. In order to get your driver’s license back, you must complete all requirements listed in your compliance summary, which can include completion of the Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program and filing an SR-22 certificate of insurance.

 

Fees owed to the DMV must be paid by credit card, or check or money order made out to DMV. Reinstatement fees can range from $40.00 to $220.00 depending on your case. You can read more about paying reinstatement fees on the FAQs page here. When your driving privileges are officially restored, you will get a clearance letter. Don’t drive until you receive this letter to ensure that you don’t drive on a suspended license.

 

Restricted Driver’s License

 

You may be eligible for a restricted driver’s license before your suspension is over, but you must provide written justification as to why you need it. You must show proof that you have no other means of transportation, such as family members or bus lines, and that your employment will suffer as a result. If you are approved, you will only be able to drive in limited circumstances, such as to and from work, school, and medical treatments. You can learn more about applying for a restricted driver’s license on the Virginia DMV page.

 

SR-22 Certificate of Insurance

 

Before you get your driver’s license back, you may have to show proof of financial responsibility in the form of an SR-22 certificate of insurance. This is not a special type of car insurance, but instead a form that proves that you have met the minimum requirements that the state of Virginia has defined. If you need to change your insurance coverage, your carrier can make the necessary adjustments. Your insurance rates will likely double or triple as a result of your DUI conviction. However, you must maintain this level of insurance for the entire time required by the state, or your insurance company will inform the DMV that you no longer have the required coverage. As a result, you will lose your driver’s license again and may be subject to additional penalties.

 

Questions about Your Situation

 

If you have questions or concerns about your case, it is best to contact a qualified Virginia DUI attorney who understands how the system works. With their experience, you can ensure that you follow the correct procedures and protect your chances at having your driving privileges restored promptly. This can be particularly beneficial if you are dealing with a more difficult case that involves multiple past DUI convictions, a fatality, or very high blood alcohol content. You may need to show proof that you are not a danger to the public, and the Virginia DUI lawyer can help you do just that.

 

You can also get more information about the requirements for your case by contacting the Virginia DMV with your questions:

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
P.O. Box 27412
Richmond, VA 23269
(804) 497-7100
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