How to Reinstate Georgia Suspended License: Fees and Options
A suspension or revocation means you’ve lost your privileges to drive.
It’s unfortunate but the law is the law.
Do not, under any circumstances, push the state by driving on a suspended license. This could lead to serious punishments, including longer suspensions, fines, and even jail time.
In this article, you’ll learn why your license was suspended. Plus, what you need to do for reinstatement in the state of Georgia. Let’s dig in.
Why Your License (Probably) Got Suspended
Your license is suspended if you accumulate more than 15 points in 2 years under GA’s point system.
Points and suspensions happen for many reasons, like:
- Traffic violations
- Alcohol/drug violations
- Speeding
- No liability insurance
- DWI & DWI
- Unpaid tax debts
- Refusing the BAC test
- Safety violations
- Failing to pay child support
Georgia also includes a list of mandatory suspensions:
- Homicide by vehicle
- Felony while using a vehicle
- Fleeing or eluding an officer
- Hit and run
- Racing
Plus, if you’re caught driving with a suspended license.
Mandatory revocations happen when a license is suspended and you repeat offenses. This is when you’re declared a habitual violator or refuse to submit a re-examination of driving skills. The mandatory revocation can happen if you’re too unfit to drive, too.
How to check the status of your license:
- Call 678-413-8400
- Visit one of the many DDS service centers
- Use the DDS.ga.gov website
Revocations typically happen if you commit a 3rd mandatory suspension-type conviction within 5 years. Or an immediate revocation if you’re unfit to drive or refuse to take DDS written/driving tests.
My GA License Got Suspended, Now What?
The obvious answer: avoid driving with a suspended or revoked license.
You will need to wait for the duration of the suspension/revocation and pay fines before a license is reinstated. Or, you reach the moment when you can re-apply once these restrictions are lifted. The duration and fees depend on your activities; worse offenses cause more suspension time.
Suspensions last a few months to many years.
If the suspension was a surprise, check the status of your license on the Georgia Department of Driver Services. Or, call a local office inquiring the decision and what steps you’ll need to take moving forward.
Making an Appeal
You may appeal to the GA DDS about your suspension.
This includes doing:
- Submitting a hearing request
- Within 10-days of the suspension
- Paying a $150 – $250 fee
- Depends on the suspension type
This only includes the appeal to the GA DDS, it doesn’t include penalties.
Reinstating a Georgia Suspended License
Reinstating a suspended license may include:
- Submitting proof of insurance
- Pleading or paying traffic violation tickets
- Paying and catching up on child support payments
- Paying mandatory files and jail time for DUI
- Retaking a traffic course or DUI program
You will also need to pay any additional fines and fees associated with the suspension.
Reinstating a license typically involves these steps:
- Submit an Official Notice of Suspension
- Online: Transaction ID on the form
- Provide proof of ID
- ID
- DoB
- SSN
- Driver’s license #
- Complete/retake:
- Driving course (if applicable)
- Driving test (if applicable)
- Pay any necessary fees, including:
- DUI: $200 – $210
- Proof of Insurance: $200 – $210
- Points: $300 – $410
- Failure to Appear: $90 – $100
- Pay reinstatement fees
Mail your documents and payment to:
Department of Driver Services (DDS)
Validation Unit
P.O. Box 80447
Conyers, GA 30013
Do all these items and you’ll soon regain your driving privileges!
Limited Driving Permits
Georgia does show some leniency with suspended driver’s licenses if:
- Driving to/from work
- Receiving medical attention to drug abuse
- Attending college/classes
- Attending a driver’s ed course
- Attending/doing community service/probation
…and a few others best mentioned with the GA DDS and legal counsel. The limited permit is instantly revoked if you violate the terms of your condition.
