Reapplication Fees and Other Expenses for a Suspended License

A suspended driver’s license delivers serious ouch. Besides the obvious costs associated with the initial traffic ticket which resulted in the license suspension, there are plenty of other hidden fees and expenses that emerge during reapplication.

Suspended License Fees and Other Costs

If you have a suspended license, you can expect to deal with the following fees.

License Reinstatement Fees

The exact amount depends on your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) as well as the reason behind your license suspension.

In Rhode Island, for example, it costs $151.50 to reinstate license, but $351.50 to reinstate a driver license suspended for DUI. Wisconsin charges a $60 reinstatement fee, but $200 for DUI (or OWI as it’s called there) reinstatement.

SR-22 Financial Responsibility

Depending on the cause of your license suspension, you may need to provide proof of SR-22 financial responsibility. You will need to obtain an SR-22 for a mandated period of time. In most cases this will be for three years.

This red flags you as a problem driver, and in all probability, will equate into higher than normal car insurance rates. If, at any time, you allow the coverage to lapse, the DMV will immediately suspend your driver’s license.

Increased Car Insurance Rates

Most likely, you’ll face higher car insurance rates, even without SR-22.

Car insurance companies closely monitor all driving records. A suspended license does not occur from good driving. It’s the result of numerous traffic ticket violations, excessive points (if applicable to your state) and/or for serious violations including reckless driving, DUI and fleeing the scene of an accident involving you.

Thus, in the eyes of car insurance companies, a suspended driver is a risky driver, necessitating higher auto insurance premiums.

Training and Education Class Costs

You must pay tuition costs for a court-mandated defensive driving course, and/or if suspended for DUI, an alcohol and drug education class.

Ignition Interlock Devices

If DUI was the cause behind your suspension, you may, as part of the reinstatement deal, have to invest in an ignition interlock device for your vehicle. This device requires passing a breath alcohol test before the vehicle will start.

All Reapplication Fees

In severe cases, following a prolonged suspension or revocation, the DMV may require you to apply for a new drivers license. This means paying for all applicable driving test fees.