How Do People With DUIs Get Their Licenses Back?

If your license was suspended for a DUI, you can get your license back by petitioning for reinstatement. You can only get your driving privileges back once you have successfully completed your sentence and/or the term of probation. You petition for license reinstatement with the DMV, specifically a DMV field office (typically open weekdays from 9am – 5pm).

The DMV requires the following from you before reinstating your license:

• Pay a reissuance fee ($125 for DUI suspensions)
• Pay any remaining fines
• Show proof of insurance (Form SR-22)

You must apply for reinstatement by way of a written form called "DMV Form 44." Other things the DMV might require from you before reinstating your license is your social security number, thumbprint, photo, and your birth certificate. If you want to get your driving privileges back after a DUI, but you have not yet completed your sentence, you could potentially qualify for a restricted driver's license.

For more information on the process, you can visit our DMV Hearings page.