If your driver’s license has been suspended, there are steps you can take to get it back.
There are a number of reasons why your driver’s license may be suspended. In the majority of cases, these include traffic violations and a DUI conviction. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) suspends driver’s licenses to prevent unfit drivers from injuring other people and to ensure the roads remain safe. Fortunately, you do have options to get your driver’s license back if it has been suspended. Our Travis County criminal defense lawyer explains more below.
Why are Driver’s Licenses Suspended in Texas?
Your driver’s license can be suspended by the DPS if you have a certain number of moving violations. You may face a suspension of your driver’s license if either of the following is true:
- You have four moving violations within a 12-month period, or
- You have seven moving violations within a 24-month period.
After you have either of the above number of violations within a certain period of time, your driver’s license is automatically suspended. Still, you do have 20 days to challenge the suspension. Even if a court suspends your driver’s license, you can appeal the decision to retain your driving privileges.
Other than moving violations, your driver’s license can be suspended if you committed a criminal offense. For example, if you are convicted of a DUI or cause bodily injury or death during a car crash and you did not have proper insurance, your license will be suspended.
Your driver’s license may also be suspended for offenses that are not related to your vehicle. For example, if you fail to pay child support, you may face a suspension. Additionally, if you are under the age of 21 years old and are convicted of consuming, possessing, or buying alcohol, your license may also be suspended.
What to Do if Your Driver’s License is Suspended
If your driver’s license has been suspended by the DPS, there are steps you can take to get it back. These are as follows:
- Wait the required amount of time to reinstate your license and do not drive during that time,
- Pay the necessary reinstatement fees,
- Submit compliance documentation, and
- Complete any other requirements, which may vary depending on the reason for the suspension.
It is important to work with a Travis County criminal defense lawyer when trying to reinstate your driver’s license. A lawyer can help you challenge or appeal the suspension so you can retain your driving privileges.
Call Our Criminal Defense Lawyer in Travis County Today
If your driver’s license has been suspended, you do have legal options. At Granger and Mueller, P.C., our Travis County criminal defense lawyer can help you understand what those are and help you through the process of getting your license back. Call us now at 512-474-9999 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorney and to get the legal help you need.