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 Vermont 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 Vermont 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 Vermont driver's license to be suspended or revoked.

• Driving Under the Influence. Your Vermont 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 will be between 6 months for a first offense to 18 months for a second offense. Refusing to take an alcohol test will result in a six month suspension
• Excessive Moving Violations. The state of Vermont operates on a point system, in which drivers accumulate points on their license for every moving violation they commit. If you accumulate 10 or more points on your current driver record in a two year period, your license may be suspended for periods ranging from one month to over a year.
• Failure to stop following an accident. Failing to stop when involved in an accident or attempting to elude a police officer will also result in license suspension.
• Driving with a Suspended License or no License. Driving with a suspended license will lead to an increase in the length of the suspension, and you may also be imprisoned for up to five years. The duration of the additional suspension varies depending on the reason for the underlying suspension. Your driver's license may also be suspended if you do not have your license with you while you are driving.
• Driving without Insurance. All motor vehicles driven in Vermont must be properly insured. Failure to provide proof of valid auto insurance can result in your license being suspended.
• Other Driving-Related Violations. Your Vermont 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: not responding to a DMV notice or not appearing in court; failing to pay traffic tickets, fines or surcharges; and not paying child support.

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

Having your Vermont 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.

[edit] APPEALING A SUSPENSION

If you receive a notice of suspension from the DMV, and you wish to challenge the suspension, you may request a hearing in court. An administrative law judge or DMV 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 removes two 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 but you will need to meet a range of conditions depending on the reason for your license suspension. These conditions may include:

• Payment of all reinstatement fees.
• Providing proof of financial responsibility (insurance) for three years.
• Completion of court-imposed treatment programs.
• Passing driving exams.

You should mail your request for license reinstatement together with the $65 reinstatement fee to:

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles
Attention: Driver Improvement
120 State St.
Montpelier, VT 05603-0001    

[edit] ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

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