Don't worry, that's why there are second chances in life! Which is why we’ve created this guide of everything you need to know to get your license back after a suspension. Reinstating your DL will be safe and secure - just like your driving when you get your new license, especially after you complete your defensive driving course!
When You Can Reinstate Your Suspended License

The most common are unpaid California traffic tickets or simply accumulating too many traffic tickets. It’s not a competition - it’s breaking the law! Tickets include moving violations, car accidents, and driving while intoxicated (DUI.) You can even get your driver’s license suspended because of unpaid taxes or child support!
Before you start the process of reinstating your license, you first must wait through the suspension duration. Usually, the timeframe goes as follows:
- After your suspension period has ended, you can pursue California driver’s license reinstatement
- Reinstatement is not automatic - drivers are required to apply for a CA driver’s license reinstatement to restore their driving privileges
- To reinstate your driver’s license, you must follow the reinstatement process which will differ based on the reason for suspension
How to Reinstate a California Suspended Driver’s License

CA driver’s license reinstatement procedures are not the same for all offenses. Therefore, you could have to take extra steps depending on the severity of your suspension. Below are the steps necessary to reinstate your license:
- Complete the suspension period
- Pay the license reinstatement fee
- Provide evidence of completing a required course, such as traffic school or a DUI/substance abuse course
- Provide proof of car insurance - usually for a DUI or for driving without car insurance. You may need to provide form SR-22 Proof of Financial Responsibility
- File a satisfactory Driver Medical Evaluation or other medical information - if your license was suspended due to a physical or mental injury
- Resolve all criminal charges
Fees to Reinstate a California Driver’s License

- Drug suspension: $24
- Adding a court restriction: $15
- Removing a driver’s license restriction: $20
California Traffic School

Drivers facing a CA driver’s license suspension, who have been referred by a court, may also be eligible to participate in traffic school, but only once in an 18-month period.
For information on California License Renewals, click: California License Renewals All You Need To Know
For information on California ID Cards, click: California ID Cards
- For information About California DMV Release of Liability Expalined, click: California DMV Release of Liability Expalined