While some motorists regard driving as a basic right, the fact is that operating a motor vehicle is a privilege that must be earned and maintained by demonstrating safe and lawful driving. Under certain circumstances, an individual's Washington DC driver's license may be suspended or revoked for a specific length of time, depending on the person's driving record or history, and the particular violation(s).

REASONS FOR DRIVER'S LICENSE SUSPENSIONS

There are a variety of reasons why your Washington DC driver's license might be suspended. Some of these are related to specific driving violations, while others may be due to violation of other State laws. Following are some of the most common reasons for a Washington DC driver's license to be suspended or revoked.

• Excessive Moving Violations. The Washington DC operates on a point system, in which drivers accumulate points on their license for every moving violation they commit. If you accumulate 10 or 11 or more points on your current driver record, your license will be suspended for up to 90 days. 12 or more points will result in your license being revoked for 6 months.
• Driving Under the Influence. Your Washington DC driver's license will be suspended if you are found guilty of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The length of the suspension depends on the severity of the violation and whether it is a first or repeat offense.
• Driving with a Suspended License or no License. Driving with a suspended license will result in the accumulation of 12 points and your license will be revoked automatically. You will be jailed for up to one year and/or be fined up to $5,000.
• Driving without Insurance. All motor vehicles driven in Washington DC must be properly insured. Failure to provide proof of valid auto insurance can result in your license being suspended.
• Other Driving-Related Violations. Your Washington DC driver's license may also be suspended if you engage in reckless driving, are found to be at fault in a fatal accident, or if you abandon your vehicle on a public highway.
• Physical or Psychological Disqualification. The DMV can order a re-examination of any person who may not be fit to drive. An individual's driving privileges may be suspended if the re-examination finds they are physically or psychologically unable to drive safely.
• Non-Driving Reasons for License Suspension. A variety of non-driving violations or issues can result in your license being suspended. These include failing to pay traffic tickets, fines or surcharges; and not paying child support.

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR WASHINGTON DC DRIVER'S LICENSE IS SUSPENDED

Having your Washington DC driver's license suspended is a serious matter and it is essential to adhere to State law in the event that your license is suspended. If you believe your license may be suspended due to one of the reasons listed above it is advisable to speak with a traffic ticket lawyer or a DUI-DWI lawyer. While your license is suspended, you are not permitted to drive. If you are found driving with a suspended license, you may be imprisoned for up to one year and/or required to pay a fine of up to $5,000. After your suspension is over, you must apply to have your license reinstated. This may be done in person or by mail. To schedule a hearing in person, visit your local Driver Improvement Office. To apply by mail, write to:

DMV Driver Improvement Office 
Po Box 91980
Washington, DC 20090    

Do not drive until you have completed the necessary steps and received a valid, replacement license from the Washington DC DMV.

APPEALING A SUSPENSION

If you wish to contest a traffic violation that may lead to license suspension or revocation, your request must be received within 60 days of the date of the ticket. To schedule a hearing by mail for a traffic violation, check the box marked "deny" on the back of ticket and return it with your written hearing request to:

DMV Hearing Request
PO Box 37135
Washington, DC 20013    

You may also appear in person to request a hearing on a traffic violation by reporting to Adjudication Services, Scheduling Unit, Monday through Friday, 8:15 am to 4 pm. You may also call (202) 289-2230 or toll free (866) 893-5023 to schedule a hearing. It is also a good idea to seek the advice of a traffic ticket lawyer or a DUI-DWI lawyer, depending on the reason for the proposed suspension.

RESTORING YOUR LICENSE

After your suspension is over, you must apply to have your license reinstated. This may be done in person or by mail. To schedule a hearing in person, visit your local Driver Improvement Office. To apply by mail, write to:

DMV Driver Improvement Office 
Po Box 91980
Washington, DC 20090    

After you have established that you are eligible for license reinstatement, you must pay the reinstatement fee of $98 and clear any other stops on your driving record. Do not drive until you have completed the necessary steps and received a valid replacement license from the Washington DC DMV.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Check the DC Point System.
• See also Auto Insurance.
• See also DUI and DUI Attorneys.
• See also Traffic Tickets and Traffic Ticket Attorneys.