What the Missouri petition form does and where to find it
The Petition for Reinstatement of Driver's License is the official form Missouri uses when you want to ask the state to restore your driving privileges after a suspension or revocation. You fill it out, send it to the Missouri Department of Revenue, and explain why the state should give your license back.
You can get the form directly from the Missouri Department of Revenue's website under their forms section, or by calling their Driver License Bureau at 573-526-2407. The form is also available in person at any Missouri license office. The official form number is DOR 108, so you can search for that if you're on their website.
Before you send anything, understand that filing this form does not automatically restore your license. The Department of Revenue will review your petition, look at why your license was suspended in the first place, and decide whether to grant reinstatement. That decision can take several weeks.
Key Takeaways
- The Petition for Reinstatement form (DOR 108) is available from the Missouri Department of Revenue website, by phone at 573-526-2407, or at any license office.
- You must include proof that you have met all conditions for reinstatement, such as paying fines, completing a suspension period, or finishing a required course.
- Different suspension reasons have different reinstatement requirements — a suspension for unpaid tickets requires different steps than one for a DUI conviction.
- Mail your completed petition to the address listed on the form, and keep a copy for your records.
- The Department of Revenue typically responds within 30 to 60 days, though complex cases may take longer.
Why your license was suspended and what that means for your petition
Missouri suspends or revokes driver's licenses for different reasons, and the reason matters when you file your petition. Common reasons include unpaid traffic fines or child support, accumulating too many points from traffic violations, driving under the influence, driving with a suspended license, or failing to maintain insurance.
Each suspension type has its own reinstatement path. If your license was suspended for unpaid fines, you need to show proof of payment before the Department will consider your petition. If it was suspended for accumulating points, you may need to wait out a specific suspension period and then file. If it was a DUI-related suspension, you may need to show proof of completing a substance abuse program or an alcohol education course.
Look at the suspension notice you received — it should state the reason and any conditions you must meet before you can petition for reinstatement. If you no longer have that notice, call the Driver License Bureau and give them your driver's license number. They can tell you exactly why your license was suspended and what you need to do next.
Documents and proof you need to include with your petition
The petition form itself is just the beginning. You must attach documentation showing that you have met the conditions for reinstatement. What you need depends on your suspension reason.
If your suspension was for unpaid fines or tickets, include a receipt or letter from the court showing the fine has been paid. If it was for unpaid child support, include a letter from the Missouri Family Support Division showing your account is current. If it was for lack of insurance, include a current insurance policy or declaration page. If it was for a DUI or alcohol-related offense, include a certificate of completion from an approved substance abuse program or DUI education course.
For suspensions based on accumulating points, you typically do not need to submit additional documents — you just need to wait until the suspension period ends, then file your petition. However, some point-based suspensions require you to pass a written test or vision test before reinstatement. The suspension notice will tell you if that applies to you.
How to fill out the petition form correctly
The DOR 108 form asks for basic information: your full name, date of birth, Missouri driver's license number, and current address. You will also need to provide your Social Security number. Fill in these fields exactly as they appear on your identification.
The form includes a section where you explain why you believe your license should be reinstated. This is not the place to argue that the suspension was unfair or that you disagree with the law. Instead, focus on what you have done to fix the problem. For example: "I have paid all outstanding fines as of [date]" or "I completed the required DUI education course on [date]" or "The suspension period ended on [date]."
Sign and date the form. Some petitions require a notary signature — check the form to see if that applies to yours. If it does, you can get a document notarized at most banks, credit unions, or public libraries for a small fee, usually under $10.
Where to send your petition and what happens next
Mail your completed petition and all supporting documents to the address listed on the form. As of now, that address is the Missouri Department of Revenue, Driver License Bureau, P.O. Box 200, Jefferson City, MO 65105. Do not send it to a local license office — it must go to the state office in Jefferson City.
Send your petition by regular mail or certified mail. If you use certified mail, you will have proof of delivery, which can be helpful if there is ever a question about whether the Department received it. Keep a copy of everything you send for your own records.
The Department of Revenue will review your petition and the documents you submitted. If everything is in order and you have met all reinstatement conditions, they will mail you a notice of reinstatement. You can then take that notice to any Missouri license office to get a new license card. If the Department denies your petition, they will send you a written explanation of why and what additional steps you may need to take.
What to do if your petition is denied
If the Department of Revenue denies your petition, the denial letter will explain the reason. Common reasons include incomplete documentation, failure to meet all reinstatement conditions, or a information that you do not yet meet the criteria for reinstatement.
Read the denial letter carefully. It may tell you what additional steps you need to take or when you can file again. If you believe the denial was made in error, you can request a hearing before a Department of Revenue hearing officer. The denial letter should include instructions for requesting a hearing, or you can call the Driver License Bureau to ask how to proceed.
Do not drive while your license is suspended, even if you have filed a petition. Driving on a suspended license is a separate offense and can result in additional fines, jail time, or a longer suspension period.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hear back after I mail my petition?
The Missouri Department of Revenue typically responds within 30 to 60 days. Complex cases or those requiring additional investigation may take longer. If you have not heard back after 60 days, call the Driver License Bureau at 573-526-2407 to check the status of your petition.
Can I drive while my petition is being reviewed?
No. Your license remains suspended until the Department of Revenue sends you a written notice of reinstatement. Driving during this time is illegal and can result in additional penalties.
What if I cannot afford to pay the fines before I file my petition?
Contact the court that issued the fine and ask about payment plans or hardship waivers. Some courts will work with you on a schedule. Bring documentation of your payment plan or hardship request when you file your petition — it shows you are taking steps to resolve the issue.
Do I need a lawyer to file this petition?
No. The petition form is designed for you to complete yourself. However, if your suspension is related to a criminal charge or if you are unsure about your situation, speaking with a lawyer may help clarify your options. Many legal aid organizations in Missouri offer free or low-cost consultations.
What if I moved and my address changed since my license was suspended?
Use your current address on the petition form. Make sure the Department of Revenue has your correct mailing address so they can send you their response. You can update your address by calling the Driver License Bureau or visiting a license office.