How to Manage a License Suspension or Revocation

Losing your driver’s license due to a suspension or revocation can be a significant challenge, affecting your ability to work, care for your family, and maintain your daily life. Whether your suspension stems from a DWI, unpaid traffic tickets, or other violations, it’s important to understand your options and take proactive steps to regain your driving privileges.

This guide walks you through navigating license suspension appeals, obtaining restricted driving privileges, and taking steps to restore your license.

Step 1: Understand Why Your License Was Suspended

Before taking action, you need to know the exact reason for your suspension. Common reasons include:

  1. DWI Arrest or Conviction: License suspension for failing or refusing a chemical test or being convicted of driving while intoxicated.
  2. Unpaid Traffic Tickets or Fines: Accumulating unpaid citations can result in suspension.
  3. Too Many Points on Your Driving Record: Texas uses a point system, and excessive violations can lead to suspension.

What to Do:

  • Check your suspension notice for details. It will explain the reason for the suspension, how long it lasts, and whether you’re eligible to appeal or obtain restricted privileges.

Step 2: Request an Administrative Hearing

In Texas, you may challenge your license suspension by requesting an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. This is particularly important for DWI-related suspensions.

How to Request a Hearing:

  • Act Fast: You have 15 days from the date of your suspension notice (usually the date of your arrest) to request an ALR hearing. Missing this deadline means automatic suspension.
  • Contact the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): Submit your request online or by mail, following the instructions on your notice.

At the Hearing:

  • The ALR hearing is a chance to argue why your license shouldn’t be suspended.
  • Your attorney can challenge the legality of the stop, the accuracy of chemical tests, or procedural errors by law enforcement.

Key Tip: Hire a criminal defense attorney to represent you at the hearing. Experienced attorneys know how to identify weaknesses in the case against you and increase your chances of retaining your license.

Step 3: Apply for an Occupational License

If your license is suspended, you may be eligible for an Occupational Driver’s License (ODL), which allows you to drive under specific conditions.

What Is an ODL?

An ODL grants restricted driving privileges for essential activities, such as:

  • Commuting to work or school.
  • Transporting family members.
  • Attending medical appointments or court hearings.

How to Get an ODL:

  1. Petition the Court: File a petition for an ODL in the county where you reside or where your offense occurred.
  2. Provide Documentation: Submit necessary documents, such as proof of employment, school enrollment, SR-22 insurance, or medical needs.
  3. Court Hearing: A judge will review your case and may grant the ODL with specific restrictions, like times and routes you’re allowed to drive.

Restrictions to Expect:

  • Limitation to certain hours or purposes.
  • Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID), especially for DWI cases.

Step 4: Complete Required Programs or Penalties

To reinstate your license after the suspension period, you’ll likely need to fulfill specific requirements, such as:

  1. Paying Fines and Fees: Clear any outstanding fines or reinstatement fees through the Texas DPS.
  2. DWI Education Programs: Complete a DWI Education Course or Alcohol Dependency Assessment for alcohol-related suspensions.
  3. SR-22 Insurance: File proof of financial responsibility through an SR-22 certificate–it is generally not a good idea to get this from your insurance company.  Instead, check out Accurate Concept Insurance to minimize the impact on your current insurance.

Key Tip:

Failing to complete these steps can delay your license reinstatement or lead to further penalties.

Step 5: Avoid Further Violations

Driving with a suspended license can lead to severe consequences, including:

  • Additional criminal charges, with fines and fees.
  • Lengthening your suspension period.
  • Potential jail time.

What to Do:

  • Plan Alternatives: Arrange rides with family, friends, or rideshare services to avoid driving illegally.
  • Monitor Your Compliance: Keep track of court dates, deadlines, and requirements to stay on top of your reinstatement process.

When to Contact an Attorney

Navigating a license suspension or revocation can be complex and frustrating. An attorney can help you:

  • Appeal your suspension at an ALR hearing.
  • Petition for an ODL and represent you in court.
  • Ensure you meet all requirements for reinstatement.

Take Back Control of Your Driving Privileges

At David Smith Law Firm, PLLC, we’ve helped many clients manage license suspensions and get back on the road legally. Whether you’re facing a suspension from a DWI or traffic violations, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

📞 Contact us today for a free consultation! Visit https://www.davidsmith.law/contact-us/ to discuss your options.

Don’t let a suspension derail your life—take action today!