Accumulating too many points on your driving record Getting multiple traffic violations or speeding tickets Getting a DUI/DWI Failing to appear in court or pay fees Failing to pay child support
Check your DMV’s website for information about appealing a suspension. Look for information about appeals in the letter you received informing you of the suspension. Call your local DMV and ask about the appeals process. Contact an attorney. Many attorneys provide free consultations.
For certain suspensions and revocations, you may be able to request a “hardship” or “probationary” license that allows you to drive in limited situations, such as driving for work, attending drug and alcohol programs, or for medical treatment. Contact your local DMV office to find out whether your state offers hardship licenses.
If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your administrative hearing, you can appeal in court. However, because appeals require an argument that administrative decision misinterpreted the law, you should consider hiring an attorney to handle a complicated case.
For example, in Alabama, there is no form for requesting a hearing. You must make your request by mail or email and include your name, date of birth, and driver’s license number. For comparison, Arizona requires that you request a hearing by filling out this Hearing Request form and mail it to the included address.
To prepare for your hearing, gather any documents that support your claim that your license should not be suspended. Also contact any witnesses who can testify on your behalf and arrange for them to attend the hearing with you. Be prepared to clearly argue why your license should not have been suspended. Did the DMV or court misunderstand the facts of your situation? Did they misinterpret the law? Make sure you understand what facts and law they relied upon before you address why those facts or law were inaccurately applied.
