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

• Driving Under the Influence. Your Wyoming 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. For a first offense the suspension period is 90 days, while for a repeat offense within a five year period the suspension period is one year. For a third offense within five years, the suspension period rises to three years.
• Reckless Driving. A first offense for reckless driving will result in license suspension for a period of 90 days. A second offense within a five year period will result in a six month suspension, while a third or subsequent offense results in a one year license suspension.
• Driving without Insurance. All motor vehicles driven in Wyoming must be properly insured. Failure to provide proof of valid auto insurance can result in your license being suspended.
• Leaving the scene of an injury accident/homicide. Your Wyoming driver's license may also be suspended for a period of one year if you leave the scene of an accident without rendering aid to any injured persons.
• Moving Violation Suspension. The Department of Transportation allows up to three moving violations within a twelve month period. A fourth offense will result in a 90 day license suspension. Each subsequent offense within the twelve month period will result in an additional 90 day suspension.
• 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 Department of Transportation notice or not appearing in court; failing to pay traffic tickets, fines or surcharges; and not paying child support.

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR WYOMING DRIVER'S LICENSE IS SUSPENDED

Having your Wyoming 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. The three most important things to be aware of following a license suspension are:

1. If your license has not already been taken away from you in court, you must surrender it to the Wyoming Department of Transportation. You can surrender your license in person at a DOT Office, or mail it to:

Department of Transportation
Driver Services
5300 Bishop Blvd.
Cheyenne, WY 82009-3340    

1. While your license is suspended, you are not permitted to drive. However, in some cases you may be eligible for limited driving privileges. You may request a Record Review to see if you are eligible to be issued with a probationary license. You must apply in writing before the beginning of the suspension period and include the fee of $15. You may only be issued with one probationary license within a five year period.
2. The start of any license suspension period is 25 - 30 days from the date the order is mailed to you by the Department.

APPEALING A SUSPENSION

If you wish to contest your license suspension, you may submit a request for a Contested Case Hearing. Your request must be in writing and accompanied by a $25 fee. You must lodge your request within 20 days of the notice of license suspension. In addition, drivers whose license may be suspended may be eligible to enroll in a Driver Improvement Program. Completing a Driver Improvement Program can enable an individual to avoid having his license suspended. It is also a good idea to seek the advice of a traffic ticket lawyer or a DUI-DWI lawyer, based on the reason for the suspension.

RESTORING YOUR LICENSE

To reinstate your license following suspension you must:

1. Pay a restoration fee of $50. The fee can be paid in person at any Wyoming Driving License exam center. You can also mail a check or money order payable to the Department of Transportation to the following address:

   Department of Transportation
   Driver Services
   5300 Bishop Blvd.
   Cheyenne, WY 82009-3340    

2. If your license was suspended for driving while uninsured, you must also lodge an SR-22 insurance certificate with the Department.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

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