Suspended License

Privilege or Right?

Driving is a privilege, not a right. Like all privileges, your privilege to drive can be taken away from you if you abuse it. In other words, your license will be suspended and you'll no longer be allowed to drive.

Check Your License Status

Whenever you need or want to check the status of your driver’s license, you can order a driving record report. This record will spell out if your driver’s license is currently valid. Should your license have been revoked or suspended, the report will indicate that according to what’s on record at the OMV. This report will also show points against your license and, in some cases, information on any accidents you have had.

License Suspension

According to Louisiana law, the following situations can lead to license suspension:

• Illegally changing information on your license.

• Using your license illegally.

• Including false information or leaving out information on your license.

• Violating a restriction on your license.

• Failing to comply with insurance/financial responsibility laws.

• Driving While Intoxicated (DWI).

• Refusing an alcohol analysis test.

• Obtaining three reckless driving convictions in 12 months.

• Ignoring a traffic ticket.

• Not stopping for a school bus that is either loading or unloading passengers.

• Leaving and not offering assistance at the scene of an accident in which you were involved.

• Committing negligent homicide or manslaughter with a motor vehicle.

• Committing any felony with a motor vehicle.

• Committing any act in any other state that would be grounds for license suspension in Louisiana.

• Driving while your license is suspended.

If you drive while your license is suspended, not only will one year be added on to your suspension time, but you also risk being arrested.

Hearings

In Louisiana, hearings regarding traffic violations aren't automatic. You must request a hearing from the court in the city or parish where you were issued the ticket.

If your license is being suspended due to DWI or refusing to submit to a blood alcohol content test, you'll have 15 days to request a hearing.

If your license is being suspended for any other reason, you'll have 30 days to request a hearing.

Hardship License

If your license has been suspended, you may be eligible for a hardship license. To find out, visit your local Motor Vehicle Reinstatement Office or call the DMV LINE at (877) 368-5463.

License Reinstatement

Once you're able to reinstate your driving privileges, you must either visit your local Motor Vehicle Reinstatement Office or call the DMV LINE at (877) 368-5463. If you choose to use the DMV LINE, select the first option and make sure you have your driver's license handy when you call.

Payment options include money orders, cashiers checks, certified checks, credit or debit cards if paid by telephone, and cash if paid in person.

If you handle your license reinstatement in person, your reinstatement will be processed immediately. If you choose to handle your license reinstatement over the telephone or by mail, allow 10 days from the day your fees are received.

More Information

For more information and license suspension and revocation, visit Louisiana's Suspension and Disqualifications FAQs.

You can also write to:

• Office of Motor Vehicles

• P.O. Box 64886

• Baton Rouge, LA 70896

Or, you may use the OMV Contact Form.