What happens to your license after a DUI, and how to get it back
Your driver's license is suspended or revoked automatically when you are convicted of driving under the influence. The suspension is separate from any jail sentence or fine — it is a direct consequence of the conviction itself. Getting your license back requires you to complete specific steps in a specific order, and the timeline depends on your state, whether it was your first offense, and whether you caused an accident.
Most states require you to serve a suspension period (usually three months to one year for a first offense), complete a DUI education program, pay reinstatement fees, and sometimes install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. Only after you have done all of these things can you petition your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency to restore your driving privileges.
Key Takeaways
- Your license suspension begins when ready upon conviction and lasts a set period that varies by state and offense history — typically three months to one year for a first DUI.
- You must complete a state-approved DUI education or treatment program before the DMV will consider restoring your license, and you will need proof of completion.
- Most states require you to pay a reinstatement fee to the DMV, which ranges widely but is separate from any court fines you owe.
- Some states mandate an ignition interlock device for a set period; others make it optional but allow it to shorten your suspension.
- After you have completed all requirements, you submit documentation to your DMV and may need to pass a written or driving test before your license is restored.
Understand your suspension period and what triggered it
The length of your license suspension depends on your state's law and your driving history. A first-time DUI conviction typically results in a suspension of three to twelve months. A second offense within a certain timeframe (often five to ten years) usually means a one to three year suspension. A third or subsequent offense can result in a suspension of three years or longer, or even a permanent revocation that requires a separate petition to the governor in some states.
Your state's DMV website will have a chart showing suspension lengths by offense number and circumstances. Look for your state's name plus "DUI suspension length" or "license reinstatement after DUI." Write down the exact length of your suspension and the date it began — this is the date of your conviction, not the date of your arrest. You cannot legally drive during this period, even with a restricted or hardship license, unless your state specifically offers one of those options (some do for work or medical reasons, but the rules are strict).
Enroll in a state-approved DUI education or treatment program
Before you can restore your license, you must complete a DUI education program. These are sometimes called DUI school, alcohol awareness programs, or substance abuse treatment, depending on your state and the severity of your case. The program is not optional — the DMV will not process your reinstatement without proof of completion.
Your court order will specify which type of program you need and how many hours. A first offense typically requires an eight to twelve hour program; repeat offenses or cases involving high blood alcohol content may require twenty to thirty hours or more. Some programs are classroom-based and meet once a week for several weeks. Others are online. A few states require in-person attendance only.
Contact your state's DMV or your county court to get a list of approved providers in your area. Do not enroll in a program that is not on the state's approved list — completion will not count toward your reinstatement. Once you enroll, attend all sessions and keep your certificate of completion. You will need to submit this to the DMV when you file for reinstatement.
Pay all court fines and reinstatement fees
You must pay two separate amounts: court-ordered fines (which go to the court) and a DMV reinstatement fee (which goes to your state's motor vehicle agency). These are not the same bill, and paying one does not cover the other.
Your court order will specify the fine amount. This varies by state and offense but typically ranges from $250 to $2,000 for a first offense. Contact the court that convicted you to confirm the amount and the payment important date. Many courts allow payment by phone, online, or in person.
The DMV reinstatement fee is separate and is charged by your state's motor vehicle agency. This fee typically ranges from $100 to $500, depending on your state. Some states charge a flat fee; others charge more for repeat offenses. Contact your DMV directly or check their website for the exact amount. You will pay this fee when you submit your reinstatement request, not before.
Install an ignition interlock device if required or choose to do so
An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer installed in your vehicle that prevents the engine from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath. Some states require this device for all DUI convictions. Others make it optional but allow you to install one voluntarily to shorten your suspension period.
If your state requires an interlock, your court order will specify how long you must have it installed — typically six months to two years. If your state makes it optional, installing one can sometimes reduce your suspension by half or more. Check your court order and your state's DMV website to see whether an interlock is mandatory or voluntary in your case.
If you choose to install an interlock, you must use a certified installer approved by your state. The device costs $70 to $150 to install and $50 to $100 per month to maintain and monitor. You pay these costs yourself. Once installed, you cannot remove it until the required period ends and you have proof of removal from the installer. Keep all receipts and service records — you will need to show proof of compliance to the DMV.
Gather your documentation and submit your reinstatement request
Once your suspension period has ended and you have completed all requirements, you are ready to request reinstatement. Gather the following documents: your certificate of completion from the DUI education program, proof that you paid all court fines, proof that you paid the DMV reinstatement fee, and proof of ignition interlock installation and compliance (if applicable). Some states also require a letter from your insurance company confirming that you have an active policy.
Submit your reinstatement request to your state's DMV. Most states allow you to do this online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. Check your state's DMV website for the specific process and any additional forms you need to complete. If you submit by mail, send copies of all documents, not originals, and keep copies for yourself. If you submit in person, bring the originals and ask for a stamped copy of your submission.
After you submit, the DMV will review your documents. This typically takes two to four weeks. Some states will contact you if anything is missing or incorrect. Others will straightforward deny your request without explanation if documentation is incomplete. If you do not hear back within the timeframe your state specifies, call the DMV to confirm receipt and status.
Pass any required tests and receive your restored license
Some states require you to pass a written test, a driving test, or both before your license is restored. Your state's DMV website will tell you whether this is required in your case. If a test is required, you will receive notice of this when the DMV approves your reinstatement request, or you can call ahead to ask.
If you must take a written test, it covers traffic laws and safe driving — the same test new drivers take. You can study using your state's DMV handbook, which is free online. If you must take a driving test, a DMV examiner will observe you driving and score your performance. You can schedule this test through your state's DMV website or by calling your local office.
Once you pass any required tests, your license will be restored. You will receive a new physical license in the mail within one to two weeks, or you can pick one up at a DMV office when ready after passing your test. At this point, your driving privileges are fully restored and your suspension is over.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with a restricted or hardship license during my suspension?
Some states offer restricted licenses that allow you to drive to work, school, or medical appointments during your suspension period, but not for any other reason. Others do not offer this option at all. Check your state's DMV website or call your local DMV office to find out whether a restricted license is available in your state and what you must do to request one. If it is available, you will need to explore separately and may need to show proof of employment or medical need.
What if I move to a different state before my suspension ends?
Your DUI suspension follows you across state lines. If you move, you must still complete your suspension period and all other requirements before you can get a license in your new state. Your new state's DMV will check your driving record and see the suspension. Some states have reciprocal agreements that recognize suspensions from other states; others require you to complete additional steps. Contact your new state's DMV before you move to find out what you will need to do.
Do I have to take the DUI program in the state where I was convicted?
Usually yes, but some states allow you to complete an approved program in another state if you have moved. Contact the DMV in the state where you were convicted to ask whether out-of-state completion is permitted and what documentation you will need to provide. If it is not permitted, you may need to complete the program in your original state even if you no longer live there, which may mean traveling back or finding an online option.
What happens if I drive during my suspension?
Driving with a suspended license is a separate criminal offense that can result in additional fines, jail time, and an extended suspension. If you are caught, your case will be prosecuted in the state where you were stopped. Your original suspension will also be extended. Do not drive during your suspension period, even for short distances or emergencies.
Can I get my license back early if I complete everything faster?
No. Your suspension period is a fixed minimum set by state law. You cannot shorten it by completing your education program or paying your fees early. However, if your state allows ignition interlock as an optional measure, installing one voluntarily may allow you to reduce your suspension by a certain percentage — typically 25 to 50 percent. Check your state's specific rules on this option.