Suspended License

The Basics

Suspension of your driver's license is a serious consequence for convictions of serious violations. At least two different Department of Safety bureaus get involved with Administrative License Suspensions: Bureau of Hearings and Bureau of Financial Responsibility.

Most license suspensions are a direct result of the DMV Point System. Points accumulate on your driving record and if you pass the threshold your license will be suspended. Other violations, like driving while intoxicated (DWI), can result in a suspended license even if you have not accumulated any other demerit points.

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 Should your license have been revoked or suspended, the report will indicate that according to what’s on record at the DMV. This report will also show points against your license and, in some cases, information on any accidents you have had.

Administrative Hearing

You are entitled to a hearing when your license has been submitted for suspension. The Director of the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), the same person who signed your original driver's license, will issue the Administrative Suspension.

A suspension can only be ordered after a hearing, and the Bureau of Hearings will hear your case. You are not required to bring an attorney to your hearing. However, having your license suspended will have a dramatic effect on you, your family, and your friends. It may be a good idea to consult with an attorney before your hearing date.

If you choose to appeal, be sure you complete and file Request for Administrative Suspension Hearing within 10 days of the conviction. The form is available online using the free Adobe Reader. Mail your appeal paperwork to:

• Director of Motor Vehicles

• Attn: Bureau of Hearings

• 10 Hazen Drive

• Concord, NH 03305

Hardship License

Regardless of your circumstance, New Hampshire does not offer a hardship license for anyone with a suspended or revoked license.

Restoration of a License

The bottom line is getting your license restored will cost you a lot of time and a lot of money. Before you can get your driver's license back you must complete all requirements asked of you by the DMV. Your requirements might include:

• Payment of all fines.

• Attend Driver Improvement Training.

• Attend Drug or Alcohol Rehabilitation.

If your driver's license is suspended more than once you may be considered for certification as a habitual offender. This is a very serious disciplinary program; you must be de-certified before your license is restored.

To read more about license suspension, review the DMV Demerit Point System.