What you need to do to get your Virginia license back

To reinstate a suspended Virginia driver's license, you must contact the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), pay any required reinstatement fees, and meet the specific conditions that caused the suspension in the first place. The exact steps depend on why your license was suspended — whether it was for unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, medical reasons, or another cause. The DMV will not automatically restore your driving privileges; you have to take action.

Virginia suspensions fall into different categories, and each one has its own path to reinstatement. Some require you to pay money. Others require you to complete a course, get a medical clearance, or resolve a court matter. The DMV's website has a suspension lookup tool where you can enter your driver's license number and see the exact reason for your suspension and what you need to do.

Key Takeaways

  • You must look up your suspension reason through the Virginia DMV website or by calling 804-367-0538 before you can plan your reinstatement.
  • Reinstatement fees in Virginia range from $100 to $250 depending on the suspension type, and you must pay these fees even if you have already resolved the underlying issue.
  • Some suspensions require you to complete additional steps — such as paying court fines, attending a defensive driving course, or obtaining a medical certificate — before the DMV will process your reinstatement.
  • You can reinstate your license in person at any Virginia DMV office, by mail, or online through the DMV website if your suspension qualifies.

Finding out why your license was suspended

The first step is to know the exact reason for your suspension. Virginia DMV suspends licenses for many different reasons, and the reinstatement process is different for each one. You can find out by using the DMV's online suspension lookup tool at dmvnow.com, or by calling the DMV customer service line at 804-367-0538.

When you look up your suspension, you will see the suspension code and the date it took effect. Common suspension codes include FTA (failure to appear in court), FTP (failure to pay), medical suspension, and administrative suspension. Write down the code and the effective date — you will need this information when you contact the DMV or visit an office.

Paying reinstatement fees

Virginia charges a reinstatement fee to restore your driving privileges. The fee depends on the type of suspension. Most reinstatement fees range from $100 to $250. You must pay this fee even if you have already resolved the reason for the suspension — for example, even if you have paid the traffic fine or appeared in court.

You can pay the reinstatement fee when you submit your reinstatement request. Payment methods include credit card, debit card, or check. If you are paying by mail, include a check or money order with your reinstatement process. If you are paying online or in person, you can use a card.

Resolving the underlying cause of suspension

Before the DMV will reinstate your license, you must resolve whatever caused the suspension. If your license was suspended for failure to pay a traffic fine, you must pay that fine. If it was suspended for failure to appear in court, you must appear in court or contact the court to resolve the matter. If it was a medical suspension, you must obtain a medical certificate from your doctor stating you are safe to drive.

Some suspensions require you to complete a defensive driving course. Virginia recognizes courses approved by the Virginia Safety Council. You can find a list of approved providers on the DMV website. The course typically costs between $50 and $100 and takes four to eight hours to complete, depending on whether you take it in person or online.

If your suspension was related to a DUI or reckless driving conviction, you may need to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle before reinstatement. The DMV will tell you if this is required when you look up your suspension details.

How to submit your reinstatement request

Once you have resolved the underlying cause and have your reinstatement fee ready, you can submit your request to the DMV. You have three options: online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office.

Online reinstatement is available for some suspension types through dmvnow.com. You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method. Not all suspensions can be reinstated online — the website will tell you if yours qualifies.

Mail reinstatement requires you to send a completed process for Reinstatement form (DMV Form DL-44) along with your reinstatement fee to the Virginia DMV. The address is on the form. Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks.

In-person reinstatement at any Virginia DMV office is the fastest option. Bring your driver's license, proof that you have resolved the suspension cause (such as a court document or course completion certificate), and your reinstatement fee. You can usually complete the process in one visit, though you may need to wait for an appointment.

What happens after you submit your reinstatement request

If you reinstate online or in person, the DMV typically processes your request when ready or within one business day. If you reinstate by mail, allow two to three weeks for processing. Once approved, your license will be reinstated and you can drive legally again.

If your request is denied, the DMV will send you a letter explaining why. Common reasons for denial include incomplete documentation, unpaid fines, or failure to complete a required course. If you receive a denial, contact the DMV to find out what additional steps you need to take.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive while my reinstatement request is being processed?

No. Your license remains suspended until the DMV officially reinstates it. Driving with a suspended license is illegal and can result in additional fines and criminal charges. Wait for written confirmation from the DMV before you drive.

What if I cannot afford the reinstatement fee?

Virginia DMV does not offer fee waivers or payment plans for reinstatement fees. However, some local legal aid organizations may be able to help you understand your options. Contact your local bar association or legal aid office for referrals.

How long does reinstatement usually take?

Online or in-person reinstatement typically takes one business day. Mail reinstatement takes two to three weeks. If you have unresolved court matters or unpaid fines, the timeline may be longer because you must resolve those first.

Do I need a new photo for reinstatement?

No. Reinstatement does not require a new photo or a new license card. Your existing license will be reactivated. You will only need a new photo if your license is expiring soon or if the DMV requires it for other reasons.

What if my suspension was due to a medical issue and I have recovered?

You will need to obtain a medical certificate from your doctor stating that you are medically fit to drive. Bring this certificate to the DMV along with your reinstatement fee. The DMV will review the certificate and reinstate your license if everything is in order.