How Do I Reinstate My Driver’s License After an Illinois DUI?

 Posted on December 05, 2019 in DUI

Learning how to drive is a rite of passage for most people. A driver’s license comes with the responsibility to uphold the rules of the road and drive safely. However, that is not always the case, and a driver can face serious consequences for breaking the law. There are several reasons why a motorist may have his or her driver’s license taken away. Actions such as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (DUI) or reckless driving can lead to a license suspension or revocation depending on the circumstances. Unfortunately, driver’s license reinstatement can be a long and complicated process. That is why it is best to seek professional legal counsel to represent you. 

Steps to Take to Get Your License Back

Reinstating your driver’s license after it was revoked is not as simple as paying a fine. The process for license reinstatement depends on why your license was revoked in the first place, in addition to other factors, such as your driving history. In Illinois, the Secretary of State’s office oversees vehicle registration and driver licensing authority, including reinstatements. The SOS Office will assess your case, and you will need to attend an SOS hearing and prove that you are not a danger to others on the road. 

Taking the following actions will help you recover your driving privileges in cases of a DUI:

• Maintain a clean driving record.
• Submit to an alcohol/drug evaluation. 
• Complete an alcohol/drug treatment or education program.
• Meet with a Secretary of State (SOS) hearing officer.
• Demonstrate financial responsibility.
• Pay the reinstatement and application fee ($500).
• Pass written, driving, and eye exams.

A driver’s license reinstatement is valid once it is entered on the driver’s record in the SOS office.

Other Reasons for a Driver’s License Suspension

Under Illinois law, there are additional ways a motorist can lose his or her driving privileges. This can be much more than an inconvenience, as license suspension can impact a driver’s life in many ways, especially if he or she relies on driving to get to and from work or to pick up his or her children. Below are a few offenses that can lead to losing your driver’s license temporarily:  

• Failure to appear – Not showing up to scheduled court hearing for an outstanding traffic violation
• Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) – Young drivers who receive one or more moving violation
• Tollway violations – Evading or failure to pay five or more fines
• Parking violations – Failure to pay 10 or more parking tickets
• Reckless driving – Operating a vehicle with willful or wanton disregard for the safety of others
• Unpaid child support – Nonpayment of court-ordered child support 

Contact a Joliet DUI Defense Attorney 

People make bad decisions all the time, including when they are behind the wheel. However, one poor decision should not affect the rest of your life. That is why it is imperative that you speak to an accomplished Will County license reinstatement lawyer. At McNamara Phelan McSteen, LLC, we understand how important it is to reclaim your driving privileges. To schedule your free consultation, call our office today at 815-727-0100.

Sources:

https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/drivers/drivers_license/dlreinstatement.html

https://www.idrivesafely.com/dmv/illinois/drivers-license/suspended-drivers-license/