How Pennsylvania reinstates a suspended or revoked license
Pennsylvania does not automatically reinstate your license when a suspension or revocation period ends. You must take specific steps with PennDOT (the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation) to get your driving privileges back. The exact process depends on why your license was suspended or revoked — whether it was for unpaid traffic fines, DUI, points accumulation, or another reason — and each path has different requirements and fees.
The first step is always to contact PennDOT directly to find out your current license status and what you need to do. You can call the Driver License Section at 717-787-2937 or visit a PennDOT Driver License Center in person. Having your driver's license number or Social Security number ready will speed up the call.
Key Takeaways
- You must contact PennDOT to learn why your license was suspended or revoked and what steps are required to reinstate it.
- Most reinstatement paths require you to pay a reinstatement fee (typically $65 to $100) plus any outstanding fines or court costs.
- Some suspensions require you to complete a defensive driving course, substance abuse program, or other remedial action before PennDOT will reinstate you.
- Reinstatement usually takes one to two weeks after you meet all requirements and submit payment, though you can sometimes get a temporary license to drive while waiting.
Why your license was suspended or revoked matters
Pennsylvania suspends or revokes licenses for different reasons, and the reinstatement process is not the same for all of them. The most common reasons are accumulating too many points from traffic violations, driving under the influence (DUI), failing to pay fines or court costs, failing to appear in court, or not maintaining required insurance.
If your suspension is for points, you may be able to reinstate by paying the reinstatement fee once your suspension period ends. If it is for a DUI or refusal to take a breath test, you will likely need to complete a substance abuse program and possibly install an ignition interlock device. If it is for unpaid fines or failure to appear, you must resolve those issues with the court before PennDOT will reinstate you.
When you call PennDOT, ask them to explain the specific reason for your suspension and what you must do before reinstatement is possible. Write down the name of the person you speak with and any reference number they give you.
The reinstatement fee and what it covers
PennDOT charges a reinstatement fee to restore your license. This fee is separate from any fines, court costs, or other money you may owe. The reinstatement fee is typically $65 for a suspension and $100 for a revocation, though the exact amount can vary depending on the reason for the suspension or revocation.
You pay this fee when you submit your reinstatement request. You can pay by mail, in person at a Driver License Center, or online through the PennDOT website if your suspension qualifies for online reinstatement. Some suspensions cannot be handled online and require you to visit a center or mail in your request.
In addition to the reinstatement fee, you must pay any outstanding traffic fines, court costs, or other money owed to the court or to PennDOT. If you are unsure what you owe, PennDOT can tell you when you call.
Suspensions that require more than just a fee
Some reasons for suspension or revocation require you to complete additional steps before you can reinstate. A DUI suspension almost always requires you to complete a substance abuse program approved by PennDOT. You must finish the program and provide proof to PennDOT before they will reinstate your license.
If your suspension was for refusing a breath or blood test, you may also need to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. This device prevents the car from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath. You must keep the device installed for a period set by the court, and you must pay for the installation and monthly monitoring yourself.
If your suspension is for accumulating too many points, you may be required to take a defensive driving course. Completing an approved course can sometimes reduce points from your record and help you avoid future suspensions. PennDOT can provide a list of approved courses.
How to submit your reinstatement request
Once you have met all requirements — paid the fee, completed any required programs, resolved court issues — you can submit your reinstatement request. You have three options: mail, in person, or online.
By mail: Send a letter to PennDOT Driver License Section, P.O. Box 68691, Harrisburg, PA 17106-8691. Include your name, date of birth, driver's license number, the reinstatement fee, and proof that you have met any other requirements (such as a certificate from a substance abuse program). Keep a copy for your records.
In person: Visit any PennDOT Driver License Center with your driver's license, proof of identity, the reinstatement fee, and proof of any completed programs. A staff member can process your request on the spot and tell you when your license will be reinstated.
Online: Some suspensions can be handled through the PennDOT website. Go to www.dmv.pa.gov and look for the reinstatement option. Not all suspension types are available online, so you may need to use mail or in-person if your situation does not may have access to.
What happens after you submit your request
After you submit your reinstatement request, PennDOT typically processes it within one to two weeks. You will receive written confirmation by mail when your license has been reinstated. You can then drive legally again.
If you need to drive before your reinstatement is complete, you may be able to request a temporary license or a limited license that allows you to drive for work or other essential purposes. Ask PennDOT about this option when you submit your reinstatement request — not all suspension types allow temporary licenses, and you may need to meet certain conditions to receive one.
If your reinstatement request is denied, PennDOT will send you a letter explaining why. Common reasons for denial include not paying the full fee, not completing a required program, or still owing money to a court. The letter will tell you what you need to do to fix the problem and resubmit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive while my reinstatement request is being processed?
Not legally, unless you have a temporary or limited license. Some suspensions allow temporary licenses for work or essential travel. Ask PennDOT whether your suspension qualifies when you submit your request. Driving on a suspended license carries serious penalties, including additional fines and jail time.
What if I cannot afford the reinstatement fee right now?
Contact PennDOT to ask about payment plans or hardship options. Some Driver License Centers may work with you on timing, though this varies by location. You can also ask the court that issued your suspension whether they have programs to help with fines and fees.
Do I need a new photo for reinstatement?
Not usually. Your existing license photo is used when your license is reinstated. However, if your license has expired or will expire soon, you may need to renew it at the same time, which does require a new photo and additional fees.
How long does a suspension stay on my record?
Once your license is reinstated, the suspension itself is part of your driving history. Insurance companies and employers may see it. The length of time it affects your insurance rates or job prospects depends on the reason for the suspension and the policies of the company reviewing your record.
What if I moved out of Pennsylvania after my suspension?
You can still reinstate your Pennsylvania license by mail or online if your suspension qualifies for those methods. If you now live in another state and want to get a license there instead, you will need to contact that state's DMV. Your Pennsylvania suspension may affect your ability to get a license in another state.