How to Get a Suspended License Reinstated in Louisiana

Having a suspended driver’s license stops you from driving. Without being able to drive, your life is put on hold. How will you be able to drive to work, pick up your kids, or even leave the house? A part of your independence is taken from you as you rely on public transportation or friends and family members for a ride.

There are actions you can take to get your license reinstated. By following the proper steps, you can get your freedom back and return to the road.

Don’t make the mistake of avoiding the problem.

Don’t know where to start?

Continue reading this guide to learn how to get your suspended license reinstated in Louisiana.

At the Law Office of Heather C. Ford, we’re passionate about your success. We’re your one-stop shop for all things traffic ticket-related. We aim to help you resolve your traffic ticket or license suspension issues to get you back on the road as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Contact us today to get started on your case.

Common Reasons for License Suspension

Many people don’t even realize they have had their license suspended until it’s too late. Typically, you’re not notified that your license is suspended, so it’s essential to be aware of common license suspension causes.

This way, you know to check your license status if you encounter any of these reasons:

• Multiple moving violations
• Driving while under the influence
• Driving without insurance
• Non-moving violations
  • Failure to pay or resolve traffic violations
  • Failure to appear in court
  • Unlawful use of your license
• Driving with a suspended license

It’s advisable to check your driver’s license status after getting a ticket or violation to see if your license is suspended. Driving with a suspended license can lead to more severe consequences.

Checking if Your License is Suspended

It’s a common misunderstanding that you’ll be notified when your license is suspended. However, this is not the case. Driving with a suspended license can lead to a longer suspension period and other penalties. So it’s helpful to learn how to check your driver’s license status.

The easiest way to check for a suspended license in Louisiana is to visit www.expresslane.org. You can access the system by entering your driver’s license number and the last four digits of your social security number. Once you’ve entered the site, you can either request a license reinstatement inquiry or order an official driving record. Either option can tell you whether or not your license is suspended.

How to Get Your License Reinstated

Here are some steps to follow to get your license reinstated in Louisiana.

Do Not Drive

One of the first things you should know about having a suspended license is that you cannot drive during your suspension period. Some people might drive because they were unaware it was suspended, or they were driving out of necessity. However, driving with a suspended license can lead to a longer suspension, increased fines, or even imprisonment.

Pay Reinstatement Fees

One of the easiest options is to wait out your suspension period and pay the license reinstatement fee. After your suspension period, you will receive a notice that provides instructions for reinstating your license. To do this, you must pay various fees and fines and provide any documentation requested by the DMV such as proof of insurance.

While this may be the easiest way to get back your license, it will take time and money. Sometimes you can’t wait to get your license back.

Thankfully, there are a few more options.

Apply for a Hardship License

You may be eligible for a hardship license, which allows special driving privileges. For example, you can drive to school, work, or other necessary locations with a hardship license. To check whether or not you qualify for a hardship license, visit your local Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV). 

If you’re eligible, you apply by filing an SR22 form with the OMV, paying a reinstatement fee, submitting a court order, and installing an ignition interlock device (IID) if you are suspended due to a DWI.

It’s important to note that you cannot use a hardship license to operate a commercial vehicle.

Contact a Suspended License Attorney

Your best option is to contact a Louisiana suspended license attorney. A suspended license attorney can help you reinstate your license with several strategies. For example, they can help you fight the charges that resulted in suspension. They can also help you apply for a hardship license or appeal your suspension.

Also, an attorney is your legal advocate. They will answer your questions about having a suspended license and do whatever it takes to get your license back as soon as possible.

Contact the Law Office of Heather C. Ford to get your suspended license reinstated.