What you need to do to get your license back
To reinstate a suspended Missouri driver's license, you must first find out why it was suspended, then complete the specific steps the state requires for that reason. The Missouri Department of Revenue handles reinstatement, and the process differs depending on whether your suspension came from unpaid traffic fines, a DWI conviction, points accumulation, or another cause. You cannot straightforward pay a fee and get your license back — you have to address the underlying reason first.
The fastest way to learn your suspension reason is to check your driving record through the Missouri Department of Revenue website or call their Driver Services Bureau at 573-526-2407. Once you know why your license was suspended, you can follow the specific reinstatement path for that category.
Key Takeaways
- Your suspension reason determines what you must do to reinstate — unpaid tickets, DWI convictions, and point accumulation each have different requirements.
- Contact the Missouri Department of Revenue at 573-526-2407 or check your record online to find out exactly why your license was suspended.
- Most reinstatement paths require you to pay a reinstatement fee (currently $100 for most suspensions) plus any outstanding fines or court costs.
- For DWI-related suspensions, you may need to complete an alcohol education program and install an ignition interlock device before reinstatement is possible.
- After you complete all requirements, the Department of Revenue will mail you a new license or notification that your suspension has been lifted.
Suspension for unpaid traffic fines or court costs
If your license was suspended because you did not pay a traffic ticket or court costs, you must pay the full amount owed before reinstatement. Contact the court that issued the ticket — the citation should list the court name and phone number. The court will tell you the exact amount due and accept payment by phone, mail, or in person.
Once the court confirms payment, they send notice to the Missouri Department of Revenue that the debt is cleared. You then pay the $100 reinstatement fee to the Department of Revenue. This can be done online through their website, by mail, or in person at a Missouri license office. After processing, your license status updates and you can drive legally again.
Suspension for accumulating too many points
Missouri suspends licenses when a driver accumulates 12 or more points within a 12-month period, or 18 or more points within a 24-month period. Points come from traffic violations like speeding, reckless driving, or at-fault accidents. If this is your suspension reason, you must wait out a mandatory suspension period before you can reinstate.
The suspension length depends on how many points you had: a first suspension is typically 30 days, a second is 60 days, and a third or later suspension is 90 days. You cannot shorten this waiting period. Once the suspension period ends, you pay the $100 reinstatement fee to the Department of Revenue. You do not need to take a new driving test unless the Department specifically requires one based on your record.
Suspension related to DWI or impaired driving
A DWI conviction or failed breath test triggers a separate suspension process with stricter requirements. The suspension length depends on whether it is your first offense and whether you refused a breath test. A first-time DWI suspension is typically 30 days, but refusal to take a breath test can extend it to one year.
Before you can reinstate after a DWI suspension, you must complete an alcohol education program approved by the Missouri Department of Revenue. You also must have an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle — this device prevents the car from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath. The device stays installed for a period set by the court, usually at least six months. After completing the program, installing the device, and waiting out the suspension period, you pay the $100 reinstatement fee plus any court costs.
Suspension for failure to maintain insurance
If your license was suspended because you drove without proof of insurance or your insurance lapsed, you must obtain a new insurance policy and provide proof to the Missouri Department of Revenue. Contact an insurance company and purchase a policy that meets Missouri's minimum requirements: $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
Once you have an active policy, request an SR-22 form from your insurance company — this is a certificate of financial responsibility that proves you are insured. Your insurance company files this directly with the Department of Revenue. After the SR-22 is processed and the suspension period ends (usually 30 days), you pay the $100 reinstatement fee. Some insurance companies charge extra for filing an SR-22, so ask about this cost when you purchase your policy.
The reinstatement fee and where to pay it
Missouri charges a $100 reinstatement fee for most suspensions. This is separate from any fines, court costs, or other amounts you owe. You can pay the reinstatement fee through the Missouri Department of Revenue's online portal, by mail to their Jefferson City office, or in person at any Missouri license office.
To pay online, visit the Department of Revenue website and look for the driver services section. You will need your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. By mail, send a check or money order payable to "Missouri Department of Revenue" along with a letter stating your name, license number, and that you are paying a reinstatement fee. Include your return address so they can send confirmation. Processing typically takes one to two weeks by mail.
What happens after you meet all requirements
Once you have completed every step for your suspension type — paid fines, completed programs, installed devices, or obtained insurance — and paid the reinstatement fee, the Missouri Department of Revenue processes your case. This usually takes five to ten business days. You will receive a letter in the mail confirming that your suspension has been lifted and your license is reinstated.
If you need to drive before your new license arrives, you can request a temporary driving permit from a Missouri license office. Bring your reinstatement confirmation letter and a photo ID. The temporary permit is valid for 30 days and allows you to drive while you wait for your permanent license in the mail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive while my reinstatement is being processed?
No. Driving on a suspended license is illegal in Missouri and can result in additional fines and criminal charges. If you need to drive before your reinstatement is complete, you can request a temporary driving permit from a Missouri license office once you have paid all required fees and met all other conditions.
What if I do not know why my license was suspended?
Call the Missouri Department of Revenue Driver Services Bureau at 573-526-2407 with your driver's license number and Social Security number. They will tell you the suspension reason and what you must do to reinstate. You can also check your driving record online through the Department of Revenue website.
Do I have to take a driving test to get my license back?
Not for most suspensions. You only take a new driving test if the Department of Revenue specifically requires it based on your record or the reason for suspension. The Department will notify you if a test is required as part of your reinstatement.
What if I cannot afford the reinstatement fee right now?
Contact the Missouri Department of Revenue to ask about payment plans or hardship options. Some courts also offer payment plans for outstanding fines. Call 573-526-2407 to discuss your situation and learn what options may be available to you.
How long does reinstatement usually take?
Once you have completed all requirements and paid the reinstatement fee, processing takes five to ten business days. If you pay by mail, add one to two weeks for mail delivery. Your new license arrives by mail within two to three weeks after approval.