New York Suspended License: A Reinstatement Guide

New York Suspended License

Driving in New York with a suspended license is a serious, criminal offense. Don’t do it!

Those caught may face extended suspension times and/or revoked licensing. Repeated offenses carry criminal charges and harsh fines. A revoked license will require you to apply for a license, take the written/driving tests, and pay fees/taxes all over again.

NY typically decides on two suspension types:

  • Indefinite
  • Definite

This post shares why you may get a suspended or revoked license. Plus, what you can do to reinstate your driving privileges in the state of New York?

My License is Suspended, Now What?

It’s recommended you 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 can re-apply.

The NY DMV will alert and explain the type/length of your license suspension with a definite or indefinite suspension order – sharing:

  • Judgment overview
  • Length of suspension
  • Start/end date
  • Fines and fees

Check the status of your driver’s license at NY state’s My License, Permit, or ID.

Why Your License (Probably) Got Suspended

There are many reasons for suspension and revocation – including:

  • Suspensions
    • Traffic tickets
    • Alcohol/drug violations
    • Speeding
    • No liability insurance
  • Revocation
    • DWAI & DWI
    • Unpaid NY State tax debts
    • Road test failure & chemical test refusal
    • No liability insurance

The length of your license suspension depends on your actions. Plus, if these instances were a repeat offense – or previously convicted of a criminal offense. It’s best to talk with a legal counsel to understand your rights.

You may appeal a non-criminal violation to the Traffic Violations Bureau. Else, refer to the Plead to or Pay TVB tickets page for serious incidents. You may repeal your TVB hearing decision within 30 days. Some may receive a conditional or restricted license giving limited driving privileges for special cases.

Reinstating a Suspended License in New York

Drivers with a definite license suspension may appeal to the NY DMV given their offense did not include a major offense. Criminal penalties will likely still apply.

You will likely pay a suspension termination fee with most suspensions.

Reinstating a suspended license may include doing the following:

  • Submit proof of insurance
  • Plead or pay traffic violation tickets
  • Pay and catch up on child support payments
  • Pay mandatory files and jail time for DUI

You will also need to pay any additional fines and fees associated with the suspension.

What you’ll do when reinstating a license:

  1. Visit the NY DMV website
  2. File your information
    1. ID
    2. DoB
    3. Gender
    4. SSN
    5. Email
  3. Pay any necessary fees including:
    1. Suspension fee: $50 (definite) or higher (indefinite)
    2. Driver Responsibility Assessment
    3. Zero Tolerance Law fees: $100
    4. Civil Penalties
    5. Tickets & Fines

You’ll wait about 2-days to receive your license or until the date of the suspension. You will include the same items when processing through mail or in person.

For Revoked Licenses

Those with a revoked license must wait out the period. You will pay any necessary fees & fines. Plus, need to re-apply for a license using the MV-44 form or DS-115 if you’re from out-of-state.