Suspended License

Reasons for Suspension

Delaware highlights the many reasons for suspended licenses. A few examples are:

• Loss of liability insurance

• Habitual offender

• Medical surrender

• Failure to pay child support

• School expulsion

Still, the most common reasons for suspension of your driver's license is through the DMV Point System.

Check Your Driver's License Status

If or when you would like to check the status of your driver's license, you can order a driving record report. This report will advise you if your driver's license is currently valid. Should your license be suspended or revoked, it will be indicated according to the DMV's records. The report will also show points against your license and, in some cases, information on any accidents you have had.

Suspension by the Point System

Once your reach eight points the DMV will send you a notice explaining what you need to do about your driving record. After 12 points the consequences kick in and you will have to take driver improvement training.

If you reach 14 accumulated points on your driving record then you will lose your license for four months. During this period―120 days of suspension―you will have plenty of time to revalue your driver's license. Many drivers develop a new appreciation for their driver licenses and a healthy respect for the vehicle code.

When you are convicted of DUI, suspension is automatic, regardless of your driving record before the arrest. The length of the suspension period depends on the DUI arrest, your driving record, and even your age. For example, the suspension period for teen drivers can last until you turn 19 years old.

Driving During Suspension

You are never allowed to drive when your license is suspended, however, you may qualify for an occupational license, a way to legally drive to and from work, if not driving creates a financial hardship for you and your family. The occupational license is not available to everyone; only drivers with 14 or fewer points qualify, and only with certain offenses. The DMV recommends calling your local office to get specific details for your circumstances.

The Road to Reinstatement

The court or DMV may require you take a driver improvement course. If you are asked to take the course, be sure you fulfill the requirement because failing to complete the course will just prolong your suspension period. Besides, you may just learn something about driver safety and refreshing your skills is always a good idea.

Finally, once the suspension period has passed and you have taken the improvement course you will pay a reinstatement fee―$25. A phone call to the Suspension Section at (302) 744-2509 will help you complete the reinstatement process. Every suspension is unique and the DMV encourages you to speak with a suspension specialist about your reinstatement.