What to Do if Your Delaware License is Suspended
If your Delaware driver's license has been suspended or revoked, it's essential to understand the reinstatement process to regain your driving privileges. The steps you need to take depend on the reason for the suspension and whether your license was suspended or revoked.
Understanding Suspension vs. Revocation
- Suspension: A temporary withdrawal of driving privileges for a specific period. After the suspension period ends and requirements are met, your license can be reinstated.
- Revocation: A complete termination of your driving privileges. To regain driving rights, you must reapply for a new license after meeting all conditions and possibly retaking all tests.
Common Reasons for Suspension or Revocation
- Accumulating excessive points on your driving record
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Failing to pay child support
- Medical conditions affecting driving ability
- School expulsions (for drivers under 19)
Steps to Reinstate a Suspended License
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Determine the Reason for Suspension: Understanding why your license was suspended will help you identify the specific requirements for reinstatement.
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Complete Required Programs or Courses:
- Behavior Modification/Attitudinal Driving Course: Required if suspension resulted from accumulating points or certain violations. The course must be completed within the previous two years before reinstatement eligibility.
- Alcohol Education Program: Mandatory for DUI-related suspensions. Proof of completion must be sent to the DMV by the agency administering the program.
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Pay Reinstatement Fees:
- Suspended License: $50 reinstatement fee.
- Revoked License: $200 reinstatement fee.
- Medical Suspension: $50 reinstatement fee upon submission of a favorable medical report.
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Submit Required Documentation:
- Medical Suspensions: Provide a favorable medical report from a licensed practitioner indicating that your condition is under control and you can safely operate a vehicle.
- Child Support Suspensions: Obtain a release from the Division of Child Support Enforcement confirming that you have addressed the arrears.
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Retake Required Tests:
- For revoked licenses, you may need to retake the written, road, and vision tests before obtaining a new license.
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Apply for Reinstatement:
- Visit your local Delaware DMV office to submit your reinstatement application, required documents, and fees.
Special Circumstances
DUI-Related Suspensions
- First Offense: You may be eligible for the First Offenders Program, which requires installing an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for one year and completing an alcohol treatment program.
- Subsequent Offenses: Mandatory IID installation and completion of the Evaluation and Referral Program within 30 days of referral.
Occupational Licenses
If your license is suspended, you may be eligible for an occupational license allowing you to drive to work, school, or medical appointments. Eligibility criteria include:
- Holding a valid Delaware license prior to suspension
- Not having received an occupational license in the past 12 months
- Not being under suspension or revocation for another reason
- Submitting the appropriate application and notarized documents
Checking Your License Status
To verify the status of your Delaware driver's license, you can:
- Visit the Delaware DMV website and use their online services
- Contact the DMV directly at (302) 744-2509 for suspensions or (302) 744-2508 for revocations
Related Resources
- How to Check Your Delaware License Status
- Delaware Driver’s License Fees & Costs
- How to Renew Your Delaware Driver’s License
- Required Documents for a Delaware License
For more information, visit the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles.