How Can I Get My NC Driver’s License Back Once It’s Been Suspended?
Last updated on July 31, 2025
The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, or DMV, can suspend your driver’s license for a number of reasons, including the following:
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- DWI
- Refusing to submit to a blood or breath test
- Accumulating excess points on your driver’s license
Get answers to your questions in a free consultation: Contact our North Carolina traffic lawyer today.
If your license is suspended, you will be notified in writing. Your suspension period will vary based on the reason for your suspension.
No matter the length and reason of your suspension, you’re likely wondering how you can restore your license.
Reinstating Your License In North Carolina
To restore your license or lift your suspension, you will need to take the following steps:
- Visit DMV office: First, you will need to physically visit a North Carolina DMV office to pay the required restoration and service fees. The typical restoration fee is $65, but if your license reinstatement follows a DWI charge, you will pay $130. There is also a required service fee of $50. You may pay these fees with cash, a check, or money order.
- Apply for new driver’s license: Next, you will need to apply for a new driver’s license. Depending upon the reason or reasons for your license suspension, you may have to retake the written test and possibly even the driving test.
- Take follow-up steps: If your license has been suspended as part of a criminal sentence or for a nondriving-related reason, like failing to make child support payments, you may have to take additional steps to restore your license. For instance, you may be ordered to pay court fees, fines, or complete paperwork proving that you’re eligible for license reinstatement.
Once your license is reinstated, any points you’ve accrued are canceled.
FAQs
Q: Why was my driver’s license suspended in North Carolina?
A: Your license may be suspended for a variety of reasons, such as speeding, reckless driving, DWI (driving while impaired), refusing a blood or breath test, or accumulating too many points on your driving record.
Q: How will I know if my license has been suspended?
A: The North Carolina DMV will notify you in writing if your license has been suspended, including the reason and the length of the suspension.
Q: What steps do I need to take to get my driver’s license reinstated?
A: Generally, you will need to:
- Visit a North Carolina DMV office in person
- Pay the required restoration and service fees
- Apply for a new driver’s license (which may require retaking written or driving tests)
- Complete any additional requirements related to your suspension, such as paying court fines or submitting paperwork
Q: How much does it cost to reinstate my North Carolina driver’s license?
A: The standard restoration fee is $65. If your suspension was due to a DWI, the fee increases to $130. There is also a mandatory $50 service fee. Fees may be paid by cash, check, or money order.
Q: Will I need to retake the written or driving test?
A: Depending on the reason for your suspension, you may be required to retake the written and/or driving test before your license can be reinstated.
Q: What happens to the points on my license once it is reinstated?
A: Once your license is reinstated, any points you previously accrued are canceled and do not carry over.
Q: What if my suspension was for a non-driving related reason, like unpaid child support?
A: If your license was suspended for reasons such as failing to pay child support, you may need to provide proof of compliance or resolve outstanding issues before reinstatement.
Q: Can a lawyer help me get my license back faster?
A: An experienced North Carolina traffic lawyer can guide you through the reinstatement process, help you understand your options, and may be able to expedite your case or reduce additional penalties.
Q: Do I need an attorney to reinstate my license?
A: While you are not required to have an attorney, legal representation can be extremely helpful, especially if your suspension is related to criminal charges or complex circumstances.
Q: Which counties do you serve for license reinstatement cases?
A: Attorney Jeremy Cotten assists clients in Wake, Johnston, Harnett, Orange, Lee, and Chatham counties.
Get Help With License Reinstatement In North Carolina
A Raleigh driver’s license reinstatement lawyer can help you manage the license reinstatement process. If you find yourself in need of assistance, attorney Jeremy Cotten can help. He has served hundreds of satisfied clients through Wake County, Johnston, Harnett, Orange, Lee and Chatham counties.
Give him a call at 984-600-3090 or click over to the main page to chat with a legal assistant.