Suspended License

The Basics

It's important to keep in mind that the same Department of Driver Services that issued your driver's license can also take it away for bad driving―through cancellation, suspension, or revocation―at any time.

Your license can be canceled if you give false information when applying for your license. You can apply for a new license with the correct information.

Your license can be suspended for a specific time period for numerous offenses or for getting too many traffic tickets. When that time period has passed, you may apply to get your license reinstated.

Your license can be revoked after three suspensions, or if you refuse to retake any portion of the driving exam (written or driven). It can also be revoked if there is sufficient evidence to prove you are not capable of driving safely, such as drug or alcohol addiction, disease, or mental or physical disability. A revoked license is taken away completely, and you must apply for a new license to get it back when the revocation period ends (if you're eligible).

Check Your Driver's License Status

Whenever you need or want to check the status of your driver’s license, you can order a driving record report. This record will spell out if your driver’s license is currently valid. Should your license have been revoked or suspended, the report will indicate that according to what’s on record at the DDS. This report will also show points against your license and, in some cases, information on any accidents you have had.

Limited Permit or Hardship License

You may be eligible for a limited driving permit, sometimes called a "hardship license," if your license is suspended for certain types of convictions. This permit allows you restricted driving permissions such as driving to and from work, getting prescribed medical attention, attending classes or college where you are enrolled, attending a court-ordered treatment program or driver's education, or driving to an ignition interlock center.

The Department of Driver Services can place any type of additional restriction on these permits that it deems necessary. These restrictions might include the time of day you may drive, places you may drive, or even specific vehicles you're allowed to operate. A limited permit is nonrenewable.

Reinstatement

You may be eligible to have your license reinstated after the specified time passes. There are a couple of ways to reapply for your license:

You can apply in person at a driver's license office that offers full reinstatement services. Not all centers offer this service, so be sure to check before going to your local office.

Or, you can request a reinstatement in writing. Send your request with your full name as listed on your driver's license license number, your date of birth, your mailing address, and your signature to:

• Georgia Department of Driver Services

• P.O. Box 80447

• Conyers, GA 30013

Causes for Suspension

Your license might be suspended if you accumulate 15 or more points on your license within a 24-month period. In addition, your license can be suspended if you are convicted of offenses such as driving under the influence, failure to appear in court, or committing a felony while driving a car. Of course, there are other situations where the DDS could suspend your license―be sure to check out its page about license suspensions and call the Department of Driver Services office for more details:

• Drivers License Information

• Center Hours: M-F 7 a.m.-5:15 p.m.

• (678) 413-8400