The Driver’s License Reinstatement Process
Many people in northern Illinois make the mistake of trying on their own to get their suspended driver’s license reinstated. The process is complicated and your best chance of regaining your driving privileges is to retain an experienced criminal defense attorney.
At the Law Offices of Johnson & Buh, we have more than 50 years of combined experience helping clients with driver’s license reinstatement. We know the process and will do everything possible to help you restore your ability to drive.
What To Expect During The Process
In order to get your driver’s license reinstated, you must successfully argue your case at a hearing before a hearing officer from the Illinois secretary of state’s office. Before that hearing, you must submit to a consultation with a hearing officer. During this first meeting, the officer will determine whether you are eligible for a reinstatement hearing.
Once approved for a hearing, you have the option of requesting an informal version of the hearing.
To qualify for an informal hearing, your license must have been suspended due to one of the following reasons: .
- A single DUI offense
- Minor moving violations
- An offense that did not involve a fatality
One advantage of an informal hearing over the formal hearing is that you must request a formal hearing in writing and pay a $50 filing fee. The formal hearing is required if your license was suspended due to multiple DUI convictions or an offense involving a fatality.
At the hearing, you and your attorney make the case to the hearing officer that you are now a safe driver. At the end, the officer may grant you full license reinstatement, restricted reinstatement, or deny your request. If you are approved for full or partial reinstatement, you must provide proof of auto insurance before your license will be formally reinstated. You may also be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.
Questions About Getting Your License Back? Talk To A Lawyer.
Contact the Law Offices of Johnson & Buh at 630-402-0416, or by filling out our online intake form. Our main office is in Geneva, Illinois, and we have an office located very close to the Cook County license reinstatement office.