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Losing your driver's license can disrupt your life, making commuting to work, attending essential appointments, or managing daily tasks challenging. Fortunately, you may be able to restore your driving privileges.
Our experienced North Carolina DWI lawyers at Browning & Long, PLLC, can guide you through the license restoration process step-by-step if you're dealing with a driver’s license suspension. We’re here to explain the steps you must take and provide you with the representation you need so you can resume driving as soon as possible.
Why Your Driver's License Could Be Suspended in North Carolina
In North Carolina, driving is considered a privilege, not a right. Your driver's license could be suspended or revoked by the North Carolina DMV for various reasons. While being convicted of DWI is one of the most common reasons for a driver’s license suspension, you could lose your driver’s license for many other reasons, including:
- Failing to attend a required court hearing for a traffic ticket or other criminal offense
- Not paying traffic tickets
- Speeding over certain limits, regardless of your driving history
- Refusing a breathalyzer test if arrested for DWI
- Accumulating too many points on your driving record
- Certain medical conditions that may affect your ability to drive safely
Steps to Take When Seeking a License Restoration After Your Driver’s License Was Suspended
If your driver's license has been suspended, you may be able to request a hearing with the DMV to have your driving privileges restored. You may only be allowed limited driving privileges for a period of time. In addition, the process of getting your driver’s license restored after a DWI can be more complicated. The license restoration process involves three key steps:
- Determine violations. Obtain a copy of your driving record to identify the specific violations that led to your license suspension or revocation. You can request your record online, by mail, or in person.
- Fix problems. Some issues, like failing to pay traffic tickets or attend mandatory court hearings, can be resolved before requesting a hearing. In other cases, you may need to wait for the suspension or revocation period to expire.
- Apply for a hearing. File a Driver License Hearing Request Form and pay the required filing fee. Depending on the reason for your suspension, you may need to provide additional documents, such as certified copies of your driving record, criminal record, substance abuse assessment, or proof of compliance with court-ordered treatments.
What to Expect at Your DMV License Restoration Hearing
A DMV hearing is a formal administrative proceeding conducted by a hearing officer assigned by the DMV. Retaining our skilled DWI attorneys makes you much more likely to achieve a successful outcome.
During the hearing, you'll have the opportunity to testify, present witnesses, and submit evidence to support your request for license restoration. The hearing officer may ask questions about:
- The circumstances that led to your license suspension
- Whether you have driven illegally while your license was suspended
- Your compliance with any criminal sentences or court-ordered requirements
- How your life has been affected by the loss of your driving privileges
- Whether restoring your license would pose a danger to other motorists
How Our DWI Lawyers Can Help You Get Your Driver’s License Restored
Going through the license restoration process alone can be confusing, and the DMV could deny your request to restore your driver’s license. Our knowledgeable DWI lawyers can provide invaluable assistance in several key ways.
Comprehensive Case Review
Our attorneys will thoroughly review your driving record and identify the most effective path to license restoration. We will help you fix any problems and ensure that you meet all necessary requirements. We’ll also submit the appropriate documentation, increasing your chances of a successful outcome.
Hearing Preparation
DMV hearings can be intimidating. Our DWI lawyers will prepare you for the questions you may face. We’ll help you understand what to expect during the hearing and provide guidance on presenting your case in the most compelling manner.
Skilled Representation
Our dedicated lawyers will represent you at the hearing and advocate on your behalf. We’ll present supporting evidence, question witnesses, and argue your case persuasively, working tirelessly to protect your rights and interests throughout the process.
Alternative Solutions
In some cases, complete license restoration may not be immediately possible. We can explore alternative options, such as limited driving privileges, that may allow you to drive to work or attend essential appointments while working towards full reinstatement.
