AAA cannot reissue a suspended license, but they can help you understand what comes next
The American Automobile Association (AAA) is a membership organization that offers roadside information, insurance products, and travel services — not a government licensing body. Only your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency can suspend, reinstate, or reissue a driver's license. If your license is suspended, AAA cannot reverse that suspension or issue you a new license, but they can point you toward resources that explain what you need to do to get it back.
What AAA can do is provide member discounts on certain services, connect you with legal referrals in some states, and offer educational materials about driving laws. If you are an AAA member and your license is suspended, your membership does not end, but you will lose access to some benefits — like discounted towing — until your license is reinstated by the DMV.
Key Takeaways
- Only your state DMV can suspend or reinstate a driver's license; AAA has no authority over licensing decisions.
- The reason for suspension (unpaid tickets, DUI conviction, medical issues, points accumulation) determines what steps you must take to get reinstated.
- You must contact your state DMV directly to find out why your license is suspended and what documents or fees are required to restore it.
- AAA membership does not pause during a suspension, but some benefits like towing discounts cannot be used without a valid license.
Why your state DMV, not AAA, controls your license
Driver's licenses are issued and managed by state government agencies — the DMV, Department of Licensing, or similar office depending on your state. These agencies have the legal authority to suspend licenses when drivers violate traffic laws, fail to pay court fines, accumulate too many points, or pose a safety risk. AAA is a private membership club and has no connection to this government process.
When you contact AAA about a suspended license, they will direct you to your state DMV because that is the only organization that can help you. Calling AAA first wastes time; calling your DMV first gets you the actual answer about what you owe and what you must do.
Common reasons for suspension and what each one requires
The path to reinstatement depends entirely on why your license was suspended. Suspensions fall into a few broad categories, and each has different requirements.
Administrative suspensions — usually for unpaid traffic tickets, unpaid child support, or failure to appear in court — require you to pay the outstanding debt or resolve the court case. Once you do, the DMV will lift the suspension. Points-based suspensions — from accumulating too many traffic violations — require you to wait out a suspension period (often 30 to 90 days) and sometimes complete a defensive driving course. DUI-related suspensions are longer and may require an ignition interlock device, substance abuse treatment, or a hearing before reinstatement is possible. Medical suspensions — for conditions like seizures or vision loss — require a doctor's clearance or a medical evaluation by the DMV.
You will not know which category applies to you until you contact your DMV directly. They will tell you the suspension reason, the reinstatement fee (if any), and the exact steps required.
How to find out why your license is suspended
Contact your state DMV by phone, website, or in person. Most states allow you to check your license status online through the DMV website without calling. Search "[your state] DMV license status check" to find the online portal. If you cannot find it online, call your state DMV's customer service line — the number is on your state's DMV website.
When you contact them, have your driver's license number and date of birth ready. Tell them your license is suspended and ask for the reason, the suspension end date (if applicable), and the reinstatement fee. Ask what documents you need to bring or mail to complete reinstatement. Write down the name of the person who helps you and the date of the call, in case you need to follow up.
Some states charge a reinstatement fee ranging from $50 to $300, depending on the suspension reason. Ask about this before you go in person or mail documents, so you bring the correct amount.
What to do if you are an AAA member during a suspension
Your AAA membership remains active during a license suspension, but you cannot use roadside information benefits that require you to drive. If your car breaks down, AAA will still tow it, but you cannot legally drive to the repair shop or anywhere else. Some members keep their membership for travel planning, insurance discounts, or other non-driving benefits.
If you want to cancel your membership during the suspension, you can do so by calling AAA customer service. If you keep it, your membership will resume full functionality once your license is reinstated.
Steps to take right now
First, contact your state DMV today to learn the suspension reason and reinstatement requirements. Do not wait — the longer you delay, the longer you remain unable to drive legally. Second, gather any documents the DMV says you need: proof of payment for fines, court documents, medical clearance, or defensive driving course completion. Third, submit those documents or pay the reinstatement fee according to your DMV's instructions — by mail, online, or in person.
Once the DMV processes your reinstatement, you will receive written confirmation, usually by mail or email. Some states issue a temporary driving permit while you wait for a new physical license to arrive. Keep that confirmation or permit with you while driving, because police may ask to see it.
If you cannot afford the reinstatement fee
Some states offer payment plans or fee waivers for people with financial hardship. Call your DMV and ask whether you can pay the reinstatement fee in installments or request a waiver. Be prepared to explain your situation — job loss, medical emergency, or other hardship — and provide documentation if asked.
If your suspension is due to unpaid traffic fines or child support, ask the DMV or the court whether a payment plan is available. Many courts will work with you on a schedule rather than demand full payment upfront. Getting on a payment plan and making the first payment often lifts the suspension when ready, even if you have not paid the full amount.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can AAA help me fight a suspension I think is unfair?
AAA cannot fight a suspension on your behalf, but some AAA members in certain states have access to legal referral services through their membership. Contact your local AAA club to ask whether they offer attorney referrals. You would need to hire and pay a lawyer yourself; AAA does not cover legal fees. For most suspensions, you have the right to request a hearing with the DMV to contest the suspension.
Will my AAA insurance be canceled if my license is suspended?
AAA insurance policies typically remain in force during a license suspension, but you cannot legally drive. If you are caught driving with a suspended license, your insurance may deny a claim for that incident. Contact your AAA insurance agent to ask about your specific policy and whether you should suspend coverage temporarily to avoid paying premiums while you cannot drive.
How long does reinstatement usually take?
If you pay the reinstatement fee in person at a DMV office, the suspension is often lifted the same day or within 24 hours. If you mail documents or pay by mail, allow one to two weeks for processing. Some states process online payments within hours. Call your DMV to ask how long their current processing time is.
Can I get a temporary license while my suspension is being lifted?
Some states issue a temporary driving permit or receipt that allows you to drive while your permanent license is being processed. Ask the DMV whether this is available in your state and whether you are may be able to access based on your suspension reason. Not all suspension types may have access to for a temporary permit.
What happens if I drive with a suspended license?
Driving with a suspended license is a criminal offense in most states and can result in additional fines, jail time, and a longer suspension. If you are stopped by police, you will face charges separate from the original suspension. The best course is to wait for reinstatement or use other transportation until your license is restored.