It is important to fully understand the steps (and documents) required to get your license unsuspended in Virginia. We discuss the requirements in this review, along with insights into how you may lose your driver’s license in Virginia and how it impacts the reinstatement process.
About License Suspensions, Revocations, and Disqualifications in Virginia
You may lose your driving privileges in Virginia if your license is suspended, revoked, or disqualified. Here is a close look at each:
- Suspension – This is usually less serious than having a license revoked. It is temporary, and the individual can have the license reinstated once the suspension ends.
- Revocation – This is the complete withdrawal of a license. It is more serious than suspension, and the path to reinstating the license may be more extensive.
- Disqualification – This applies to commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders. A disqualification leads to a temporary or permanent suspension or revocation of the driver’s commercial license.
What Actions May Lead to a Suspended or Revoked License?
It helps to understand what actions may lead to a suspended or revoked license in Virginia. Many are familiar with the fact that DUI charges lead to license suspension. Still, there are many additional charges, including (but not limited to):
- Excessive speeding and reckless driving
- Failure to maintain insurance coverage
- Missed child support payments
- A reckless driving charge or conviction
- Providing alcohol to a minor
- Excessive number of demerit points
- Driving while under the influence of drugs
- Hit-and-run accidents
- Involuntary (or voluntary) manslaughter
Of course, many more violations may result in a suspended or revoked license in Virginia. From failing to slow down or stop at a railroad crossing to more egregious crimes such as making a bomb threat, each case is unique.
Requirements to Get Your License Unsuspended in Virginia
The requirements to get your license unsuspended in Virginia may vary based on the specifics of your case. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) should have sent you a letter outlining why your license was suspended and what you must do to reinstate your license. Sometimes, a visit to the DMV customer service center is necessary.
Provide The DMV With a Certification of Insurance
You will most likely need to provide the DMV with a certification of insurance. Depending on your violation, you may be able to provide it online or submit the insurance certification in person. You can receive your certificate of insurance from your auto insurance provider. Keep in mind, your insurance provider must be licensed to do business in Virginia.
Provide Proof That You Have Completed All Necessary Programs
The conditions of your license reinstatement may require you to complete a series of programs, clinics, and classes. Some more common programs that may be required to get your license unsuspended in Virginia include:
- The Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program (VASAP)
- A driver improvement clinic
- Knowledge and road skill tests and classes
You may also need to provide a medical and vision report depending on the cause of your license suspension or revocation. Be sure to check your precise needs, as the requirements depend on your unique situation.
Provide Proof of Identification and Residency
This may not be necessary if you can file for license reinstatement without appearing in person. However, suppose you are required to appear at the DMV customer service center to have your license reinstated. In that case, you must provide proof of identification and residency (or legal presence).
Pay The DMV Reinstatement Fees
You will also need to pay the DMV reinstatement fees. These may vary based on the conditions of reinstatement. In general, the DMV reinstatement fees in Virginia range from $145 to $220. Certain reinstatement fees may be paid online; other fees must be paid at a DMV customer service center. Additional licensing fees may be applied to your case as well.
How to Determine Your License Reinstatement Requirements in Virginia
First and foremost, you should closely examine your DMV letter; this should detail why your license was suspended and what you must do to have it reinstated. If you did not receive your DMV letter or have lost it, then you must request a compliance summary and personal driver transcript from the Virginia DMV.
The compliance summary will detail the reinstatement requirements. Of course, a licensed criminal attorney in Virginia can assist you with determining your license reinstatement requirements and helping you get your license unsuspended in the easiest and most cost-effective manner possible.
Contact The Law Offices of Kermit A. Monge for Assistance With License Suspensions
The Law Offices of Kermit A. Monge helps individuals in Virginia with license reinstatement. If your license has been suspended, revoked, or disqualified for any reason, contact us today to learn more about the process and to determine the steps you will need to take to get your license unsuspended.