What you need to do to get your license back after a breathalyzer suspension in Oklahoma
A breathalyzer suspension in Oklahoma is a separate penalty from any criminal conviction — it happens automatically when you refuse a breath test or fail one with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 or higher. The Oklahoma Department of Public Safety (DPS) issues the suspension, and reinstating your license requires you to complete specific steps in order, starting with the suspension period itself and ending with paperwork filed at your local DPS office.
The reinstatement process depends on whether this is your first offense and whether you refused the test or failed it. A first-time failure or refusal typically suspends your license for six months; a second offense within ten years extends that to one year. You cannot shorten the suspension period, but you can prepare the required documents while you wait, so reinstatement happens quickly once the suspension period ends.
Key Takeaways
- Your license suspension begins on the date the Oklahoma DPS issues the notice, not the date of the traffic stop, so check your paperwork to know when you become may be able to access for reinstatement.
- You must complete an alcohol and drug education program (usually the DUI School) before you can reinstate, and you need proof of completion to submit with your reinstatement request.
- Reinstatement requires a written request, proof of the education program, an SR-22 insurance form, and a reinstatement fee, all submitted to your local DPS office in person or by mail.
- If you were convicted of DUI in criminal court, you may face additional requirements such as an ignition interlock device, which must be installed before reinstatement.
- The DPS typically processes reinstatement requests within one to two weeks if all documents are complete and submitted after your suspension period ends.
Understanding the difference between a breathalyzer suspension and a DUI conviction
The breathalyzer suspension is an administrative action by the DPS, separate from any criminal case. You can have a suspended license without ever being charged with DUI, and you can be convicted of DUI without a breathalyzer suspension if the arrest happened differently. This matters because reinstatement requirements depend on which one you have — or if you have both.
If you refused the breath test, the suspension is automatic and does not require a conviction. If you failed the test, the same applies. However, if you were also charged with DUI in district court and convicted, you will face additional requirements on top of the breathalyzer suspension reinstatement. Check your paperwork from the DPS notice to see which suspension you are serving.
When your suspension period actually begins and ends
The suspension does not start on the date of the traffic stop. It starts on the date the Oklahoma DPS issues the notice of suspension, which is usually mailed to you within a few days of the arrest. The notice will state the exact date the suspension begins and the date it ends. Mark both dates clearly — you cannot reinstate before the end date, and submitting paperwork after that date will delay your reinstatement unnecessarily.
If you received a notice of suspension but are unsure of the dates, contact the Oklahoma DPS Driver License Division at 405-521-3600 or visit a local DPS office with your driver's license number. They can confirm the suspension period and tell you the exact date you become may be able to access to reinstate. Do not assume the suspension is over based on how long ago the stop occurred.
The alcohol and drug education program requirement
Oklahoma requires completion of an alcohol and drug education program before reinstatement. The most common option is the DUI School, a state-approved course that typically runs eight to twelve hours and covers the effects of alcohol and drugs, decision-making, and risk factors. Some counties offer the program in one day; others spread it across multiple sessions. The cost varies but usually ranges from $200 to $400.
You must enroll and complete the program before you submit your reinstatement request. The program provider will give you a certificate of completion with a date and their signature. Keep this certificate — you will need to submit it with your reinstatement paperwork. If you cannot find an approved program in your area, the Oklahoma DPS website lists providers by county, or you can call the Driver License Division to ask for a referral.
SR-22 insurance and what it means for your policy
An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility that your insurance company files with the Oklahoma DPS on your behalf. It proves you carry liability insurance and will notify the DPS if your policy lapses. You cannot reinstate your license without an SR-22 on file, and you must maintain it for three years from the date of reinstatement.
Contact your current insurance company and ask them to file an SR-22. If you do not have insurance, you will need to purchase a policy first — most insurers will add the SR-22 filing at no extra cost, though your premiums will likely increase. The SR-22 is filed electronically, so once your insurer submits it, the DPS receives it within one to three business days. Ask your insurance company for confirmation that the SR-22 has been filed before you go to the DPS office.
Ignition interlock device requirements for some drivers
If you were convicted of DUI in criminal court (not just suspended by the DPS), Oklahoma law may require an ignition interlock device before reinstatement. This device measures your breath alcohol content before the vehicle will start. A first DUI conviction typically requires the device for six months; a second conviction within ten years requires it for one year.
If an ignition interlock is required, you must have it installed by a certified provider before you submit your reinstatement request. The DPS will not reinstate your license without proof of installation. The cost of installation and monthly monitoring usually ranges from $60 to $100 per month. Check your DUI conviction paperwork or call the district court that handled your case to confirm whether an interlock is required in your situation.
How to submit your reinstatement request to the Oklahoma DPS
Once your suspension period has ended and you have gathered all required documents, you can reinstate your license in person at any Oklahoma DPS office or by mail. In person is faster — you can walk out with a temporary license the same day if everything is complete. By mail takes one to two weeks.
Bring or mail the following: your current driver's license (or ID), the certificate of completion from your alcohol and drug education program, proof that your SR-22 is filed (your insurance company can provide this), proof of ignition interlock installation if required, and a check or money order for the reinstatement fee (typically $100 to $200, depending on the reason for suspension). Some DPS offices accept credit cards, but call ahead to confirm. If you are mailing your request, include a cover letter stating your name, driver's license number, and the date your suspension ends, and send everything to your local DPS office.
What happens after you submit your reinstatement request
The DPS will review your documents and either approve or deny your request within one to two weeks. If everything is in order, you will receive a new license by mail or can pick it up at the DPS office if you applied in person. If documents are missing or incomplete, the DPS will contact you by phone or mail to ask for what is needed.
Do not drive until your license is officially reinstated. Driving on a suspended license is a separate criminal offense in Oklahoma and can result in additional fines, jail time, and a longer suspension. If the DPS denies your request, they will explain why in writing and tell you what steps to take next — usually completing additional requirements or reapplying after a certain date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive to work or school while my license is suspended?
No. Oklahoma does not issue restricted or hardship licenses for breathalyzer suspensions. You cannot drive for any reason during the suspension period, even with a court order. Driving on a suspended license is a separate crime and can result in jail time and a longer suspension.
What if I move to a different state before my suspension ends?
Your Oklahoma suspension remains in effect. Most states have reciprocal agreements and will honor Oklahoma's suspension. You will still need to complete reinstatement with the Oklahoma DPS before you can legally drive in Oklahoma again, even if you have obtained a license in another state.
Do I have to take the DUI School in the same county where I was stopped?
No. You can take an approved alcohol and drug education program in any Oklahoma county. The DPS maintains a list of approved providers statewide. Choose whichever program fits your schedule and location.
What if I cannot afford the SR-22 or the reinstatement fee?
The DPS does not waive fees, but some insurance companies offer payment plans for SR-22 policies. Contact your insurer to ask. If cost is a barrier, some legal aid organizations in Oklahoma can point you toward resources, though they cannot waive the fees themselves.
How long does the SR-22 stay on my record?
You must maintain the SR-22 for three years from the date your license is reinstated. After three years, you can ask your insurance company to remove it. However, your insurance company may continue to charge higher premiums for several years after that based on your driving history.