The length of time you have to wait in California until you can try to reinstate your suspended driver’s license largely depends on the reason why your license was suspended in the first place.
For example, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can suspend your license for six months if you accumulate too many points on your driving record or pick up a first-time DUI.1 Meanwhile, a second-time DUI carries a two-year driver’s license suspension.2
Note, too, that the reinstatement requirements may vary depending on the reason for your license suspension. The time it takes you to complete these requirements will add to the overall time it may take you to reinstate a license.
If you are not sure how long your license was suspended, please consult with a defense attorney for help.
1. How do I reinstate my California driver’s license?
In general, you have to perform the following as part of the license reinstatement process:
- serve out your applicable suspension period: As stated above, this period will change depending on the reason for the suspension.
- complete an approved program: Depending on the facts of your case, this could involve enrollment and completion of a DUI program, defensive driving program, or traffic school.
- pay a reinstatement fee: This is typically $125, but it can vary depending on your case.
- obtain a certificate of proof of financial responsibility (SR22): The form shows that you meet California’s car insurance/auto insurance requirements.3
2. What are common reasons for a license suspension?
The California DMV can suspend your license for both driving and non-driving reasons.
A few driving-related reasons for a license suspension include convictions of:
- DUI,
- hit and run,
- evading the police in a vehicle,
- having too many points on your driver record, and
- causing a car accident.
Some non-driving reasons for a license suspension include:
- failing to pay child support,
- not having proof of insurance or not meeting your state’s liability insurance requirements,
- missing a court appearance (for example to address a ticket for a traffic violation or moving violation), and
- not reporting a car accident.
3. How do I know if my driver’s license was suspended?
The California DMV will send you a notice of driver’s license suspension in the mail.
If you did not receive this notice, you can probably check online. Once you access the website, you will be asked to provide the following information:
- your driver’s license number, and
- your social security number.
If you still cannot learn if your license was suspended, you should contact your insurance company.
4. What is an interlock-restricted license?
If your California license was suspended for a DUI offense, you usually have to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your car in order to be able to continue driving. An IID is a breathalyzer attached to your steering wheel that disables the car if it detects alcohol.4
5. What happens if I drive on a suspended license?
It is a misdemeanor if you drive a motor vehicle while your license is suspended in California.5 It is punishable by:
- up to 6 months of jail time, and
- a fine of $1,000.6
Additional Resources
If your license was suspended due to a DUI, refer to the following California DMV articles:
- Driving Under the Influence: Age 21 and Older – Overview of how getting arrested for DUI affects your driving privileges.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI) – Frequently-asked-questions and answers about the DMV consequences of a DUI case.
- Ignition Interlock Device List – Approved Manufacturers & BAIIDS (Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Devices) in California.
- Driver Safety Offices – For drivers seeking administrative hearings or drivers scheduled for departmental re-examinations.
- Licensing Fees – Costs for reinstating your license following a DUI.
Legal References:
- California Vehicle Code 12810 VC.
- California Vehicle Code 113352 VC.
- California Vehicle Code 16070 – 16078 VC.
- California Vehicle Code 23575 VC.
- California Vehicle Code 14601.1 VC.
- See same.
