Driving is essential in our everyday lives. It helps us get from point A to point B. However, a driver license is a privilege and not a right. If you currently hold a driving license in North Carolina, you must abide by the traffic laws or your license could get suspended. If it does, it is a hassle, especially if you don’t know how to reinstate a suspended license in NC.
Understanding the cause of your license suspension and the steps for reinstating it is essential. If you don’t want to lose your license forever, it pays to follow the proper procedures to get back on the road in no time.
How Do I Know If My NC License Is Suspended?
There are several ways to determine if your driver’s license in NC is suspended. Here are the steps to do it.
First, visit the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website to check your driving record. You could also visit the local DMV office in North Carolina to inquire about your license status. If you are suspended, it will show on your record on the website. You will also see other items in your driving record, such as demerit points and any other traffic violations (if any).
Another way to know if your NC license is suspended is the DMV will notify you directly. They will typically send you a letter stating that your driver’s license is suspended and the reason for it. The letter also includes instructions on how to reinstate your license. Make sure to read it carefully and follow the instructions.
It pays to be proactive and monitor your license status at all times. If you need more clarification, you can always talk to a DMV representative to avoid surprises and ensure the validity of your license.
Why Is My License Suspended Indefinitely in NC?
Several reasons could lead to your driver’s license being suspended in North Carolina. The most common cause for indefinite suspension is if you are convicted of driving while impaired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The penalty for this case is at least one year of suspension to your driving license. You must also complete specific programs, such as treatment or community service.
Another reason for an indefinite suspension of your driver’s license in North Carolina is failure to pay your court fines or not appearing in court. You must show up in traffic court to defend your case whenever you receive a traffic citation. In addition, you must address any traffic offense that you committed. If you fail to do so, it results in the indefinite suspension of your driving license.
Another reason you could have indefinite suspension of your driver’s license is if you accumulated too many points on your driving record. The demerit points represent multiple traffic violations. Therefore, the more points you have, it means you have committed more violations. If you have 12 or more points within three years, you will be penalized with an indefinite driving license suspension.
Learning about the causes of your license suspension in North Carolina is crucial. That way, you could avoid them and ensure you can avoid the hassle of reinstating your license.
How Do I Reinstate My Suspended License in NC?
With the help of legal counsel, reinstating your suspended license in NC is straightforward. Of course, the steps can vary depending on the cause of your license suspension, but here is the process flow.
Step 1: Determine the Reasons for Your License Suspension
The North Carolina DMV will provide the reason for your license suspension and the specific requirements for reinstatement. Check the requirements, but most will include completing a defensive driving course, paying the fine, and completing the additional assessments or recommended treatment programs (for DWI cases).
Step 2: Complete the Requirements
The next step in reinstating your suspended license in NC is to provide the necessary documents to the DMV. For example, you must submit proof of completion of a defensive driving course. Once you have supplied the requirements, your license can be reinstated.
Step 3: Pay the Fee
You must pay the reinstatement fee upon applying for reinstatement. But, again, the cost will vary based on the reason for your license suspension.
It’s crucial to note that some reasons for license suspension will require additional steps or requirements. For example, some suspensions require a longer waiting period before you can apply for reinstatement. In the case of driving under the influence, you must wait at least a year until your suspension is over before you can reinstate your license.
How Much Does it Cost to Reinstate a Suspended License in North Carolina?
Reinstating a suspended license comes with a cost – literally. The reinstatement fee varies depending on the reason for suspension.
The standard reinstatement fee in North Carolina is $100. But if you were suspended for driving under the influence, you must pay an additional $50. You must also pay any outstanding fines before beginning the reinstatement process.
What is the Difference Between a Suspended and Revoked License in NC?
The North Carolina traffic laws can take away your driving privileges in two ways: suspension and revocation.
If your license is suspended, you won’t be able to drive indefinitely, such as a few months to a year. But if your license is revoked, you’ll lose your driving privileges permanently.
What Happens If You Drive with a Revoked License in NC?
Driving with a revoked license in NC is a serious offense. You could face criminal charges if caught with a revoked license. You must also pay hefty fines and could face jail time. However, it is a misdemeanor offense in North Carolina, so you should avoid it.
While navigating the reinstatement process of your suspended license is possible, some situations may benefit from working with an experienced traffic lawyer. They can offer legal advice if you have concerns about the license suspension. The legal counsel provided by an attorney can also guide you through the process and ensure you will be able to drive again.