A DUI can have several adverse consequences on your life, one of which is license revocation. Without a license, important tasks such as getting to work or picking your children up from school become difficult, if not impossible.
Because of how important it is to have a valid license, you want to get it reinstated as soon after a DUI conviction as possible. The Office of the Illinois Secretary of State explains what steps you must take to get your license reinstated after revocation.
Requirements for reinstatement
Before you petition for reinstatement, there are certain requirements you must meet. For starters, you must undergo a drug and/or alcohol assessment to determine the extent of your issue. Regardless of the results of the evaluation, you must also attend and complete a drug and/or alcohol education program. Finally, you must maintain a clean driving record from the date of your DUI arrest to the date of reinstatement.
Steps for reinstatement
If you can meet the initial requirements for reinstatement, you may then begin the petition. If you are a first-time offender, you need only request an informal hearing with the Secretary of State hearing officer, which you can attend at a local Driver Services facility. If you are a repeat offender, however, you must pay a $50 nonrefundable filing fee and request a formal hearing, which will be held at one of four locations throughout Illinois. At the hearing, you must be able to demonstrate that reinstatement of your license will not endanger yourself or others.
Additionally, you must pass the driver’s exam, pay a $500 reinstatement fee, pay an application fee and present proof of fiscal responsibility. Only once you complete these steps will the Secretary of State’s office make a determination regarding your driving privileges.
License reinstatement can be a costly and lengthy endeavor. To avoid mistakes, it may be in your best interests to seek help with the process.