If your driver’s license is suspended, this means you cannot legally drive for either a specific period of time or until a legal situation is resolved. Possible reasons for a suspended driver’s license include drunken driving, too many moving violations, no automobile insurance, failure to pay child support or court fines and driving off without paying for fuel at a gas station. In many cases, you will learn if your driving privileges are suspended through a letter or in court. But there is a possibility your driver’s license is suspended and you didn’t receive notification. Checking into the situation protects you from possible legal and financial consequences that can result from driving while suspended.
Visit the Unofficial DMV Guide (see Resources) and select your state of residence. This will connect you to the official Department of Motor Vehicles website for your state. Alternatively, you can call or stop by your local DMV if you are already acquainted with the location and contact information.
View the information on your state DMV’s website. Some states, like Florida, allow you to simply enter your driver’s license number to see if it is valid. Others require you to call or stop by the office to find out the status of your driving privileges. Follow the instructions as directed.
Call or visit your local DMV branch if this is required for your state. Be mindful of the business hours noted on your state’s DMV website. Ask if your driver’s license is suspended. If you are calling the DMV, you will be asked to provide your full name, address, Social Security number, date of birth and driver’s license number. If you are visiting the DMV in person, show your driver’s license as requested by the appropriate representative. If your driver’s license is suspended, the representative will advise you what you must do to clear the problem. In some cases such as too many moving violations, you can legally drive after a specific period of times such as six months.
Driver’s license suspensions due to failure to carry automobile insurance can usually be cleared up by obtaining a policy, providing proof of its existence to the DMV and paying any required fine. If you owe a child support debt, traffic fine, or other legal obligations, you will have to clear up the situation with the appropriate court. The DMV will inform you which number to call or court address to visit if this applies to your situation.
