How Can You Get Your License Reinstated?
Drivers convicted of multiple DWI (driving while intoxicated) offenses in Missouri may face a five or ten-year denial of their driver’s license.
For instance, if you were convicted of a DWI offense twice within five years, your license will be denied for five years. A subsequent or third conviction will result in a ten-year denial.
If you have a suspended Missouri driver’s license and you want to obtain a license reinstatement, you should follow the steps below.
Determine the Reason for the License Suspension
You must confirm the reason for your suspended license to know the steps needed to get it back.
You can find information listing the reasons for losing your Missouri driving privilege on the letters received from the Driver License Bureau (DLB) or on your current driving record.
Upon confirming that you’re eligible to regain your license, you may consult the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) chart to determine what forms to complete and what fees to pay or, if you wish, you can consult an attorney.
Nonetheless, if you must complete the revocation period and don’t have a previous DWI conviction, you might qualify for a limited driving privilege (hardship license).
Petition the Court
Once you have completed the denial period, you can petition the circuit court in the county where your last DWI conviction occurred. However, you must complete the following steps before filing a petition:
- Ensure you do not have any new alcohol or drug-related driving crimes on your driver record during the suspension period;
- Obtain a criminal background check from the Missouri Highway Patrol;
- Obey all the terms of the limited driving privilege you have been granted;
- Complete the Substance Awareness Traffic Offender Program (SATOP).
After filing the petition and paying the reinstatement fee, you must attend a suspension hearing to present evidence that you no longer abuse alcohol and drugs.
The types of evidence that may be presented to the court include:
- Your testimony regarding your progress with sobriety
- Proof that you will avoid drugs and alcohol after the reinstatement
- Your current employment status
- Attendance at alcohol counseling (if any)
- Support of family and friends
- Activities you engage in during your free time
If the judge is convinced your having a license will not threaten society, the reinstatement order will be granted.
Other License Reinstatement Requirements
You may be required to provide proof of an SR-22 insurance (certificate of financial responsibility) depending on the circumstances of your suspension.
You may also have an ignition interlock device (IID) installed on your vehicle as a mandatory part of a Missouri license reinstatement.
Contacting a Missouri DWI Lawyer
Losing the driving ability or driving with limited driving privileges can be frustrating. The Missouri DWI & Criminal Law Center understands Missouri traffic laws and can represent you at your suspension hearing.
Our lawyers can also help you navigate through the reinstatement process and ensure that your driving privileges are restored. Contact us today to learn more about DWI offenses, including ‘What happens after Refusing a DWI Breath Test.’
