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 Texas 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).

[edit] REASONS FOR DRIVER'S LICENSE SUSPENSIONS

There are a variety of reasons why your Texas 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 Texas driver's license to be suspended or revoked.

• Driving Under the Influence. Your Texas 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 (between 90 days and 2 years) depends on the severity of the violation and whether it is a first or repeat offense.
• Drug Offenses. A conviction for a drug offense (which does not necessarily have to have been committed while operating a motor vehicle) will result in license suspension for 180 days.
• Excessive Moving Violations. If you receive too many tickets for moving traffic violations your license may be suspended. Your license will be suspended if you receive 4 or more traffic tickets in a 12 month period or 7 or more traffic tickets in a 24 month period.
• Driving with a Suspended License or no License. Driving with a suspended license will lead to an increase in the length of the suspension, equal to the original suspension period.
• Driving without Insurance. All motor vehicles driven in Texas must be properly insured. A second or subsequent ticket for driving without insurance can result in your license being suspended.
• Physical or Psychological Disqualification. The DOT 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.
• Other Driving-Related Violations. Your Texas 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 have your license suspended in another State.
• Non-Driving Reasons for License Suspension. A variety of non-driving violations or issues can result in your license being suspended. These include being found incapable of safely operating a motor vehicle by the Medical Advisory Board, failing to pay traffic tickets, fines or surcharges and not paying child support.

[edit] WHAT TO DO IF YOUR TEXAS DRIVER'S LICENSE IS SUSPENDED

Having your Texas 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. Depending on the reasons for your license suspension, you may be eligible for an Occupational/Restricted License that will allow you to drive to and from work and other necessary appointments during the suspension period.

[edit] APPEALING A SUSPENSION

If you receive a suspension notice from the DOT, and you wish to challenge the suspension, you may request a hearing in court. An administrative law judge or the DOT representative will hear your case, and determine whether your driver's license should be suspended or not. In addition, drivers whose license may be suspended due to accumulating excessive points may be eligible to enroll in a Driver Improvement Program. Completing a Driver Improvement Program may remove points from the current driving record, and in some cases can enable an individual to avoid having his license suspended. It is a good idea to seek the advice of a traffic ticket lawyer or a DUI-DWI lawyer, based on the reason for the suspension.

[edit] RESTORING YOUR LICENSE

When your suspension period is over, you can restore your license by paying the reinstatement fee and supplying a valid proof of financial responsibility (SR-22) insurance certificate. The reinstate fee varies depending on the reason your license was suspended, between $100 and $125. There are currently 4 locations where you may reinstate your driving privilege. These are located at:

• Austin

  108 Denson Drive    

• Houston

  12220 S. Gessner Drive    

• Universal City

  1633 Pat Booker Rd    

• Garland

  350 West IH 30    

[edit] ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

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