Can I Get My License Back If It Was Suspended?

Losing your driving privileges feels like losing your independence. Whether you’re unable to get to work, pick up your children or handle daily errands, a suspended license creates immediate stress and long-term consequences that ripple through every aspect of your life. The good news is that license reinstatement is possible, and understanding the process is your first step toward reclaiming your freedom.

If you’re facing a suspended license in Indiana, the Law Offices of Shane O’Donnell can help you learn the steps to getting back on the road:

• Check your driver record to understand why your license was suspended
• Resolve court-ordered requirements if your suspension stems from a criminal case
• Obtain proof of financial responsibility through your insurance provider
• Pay reinstatement fees when required
• Monitor your license status throughout the process
• Seek legal help for complex cases involving criminal charges

What Happens When a License is Suspended?

License suspensions in Indiana typically fall into two categories: court-ordered and administrative (BMV) suspensions. Court-ordered suspensions often result from criminal charges like DUI, reckless driving or failure to appear in court. Administrative suspensions commonly involve insurance lapses, unpaid fines or failure to maintain required documentation.

Understanding which type of suspension you’re facing determines your path forward. Criminal-related suspensions require direct communication with the court that issued the original order, while BMV suspensions can often be resolved through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles directly.

What Are the Steps to License Reinstatement?

Check Your Driver Record

Your first step should be reviewing your Official Driver Record (ODR) through the BMV’s online portal. This certified document shows exactly what requirements you must fulfill for reinstatement. The Reinstatement Requirements section clearly outlines each step, while the Suspensions Information section provides details about why your license was suspended.

Resolve Court Requirements

If your suspension stems from criminal charges, you must work directly with the court. The BMV will only accept documentation from the court to close a suspension, making this your highest priority. Depending on your case, you may be able to stay the suspension by obtaining SR22 insurance coverage while resolving court requirements.

Obtain Proof of Financial Responsibility

Your insurance provider must electronically submit proof of financial responsibility directly to the BMV. If you have an insurance-related suspension and cannot provide proof of coverage for the original violation date, you’ll need SR22 insurance. Maintaining SR22 coverage for 180 consecutive days with no lapses will terminate most insurance suspensions.

Pay Reinstatement Fees

Most suspensions carry reinstatement fees, though you may be able to avoid these by maintaining SR22 coverage for the required period. The exact amount appears in your ODR, along with an access code for payment. You can pay online through your myBMV account, by phone or at BMV Connect kiosks.

Monitor Your License Status

Regularly checking your license status prevents surprises and ensures you’re meeting all requirements. Use the free Viewable Driver Record tool to monitor progress, and consider ordering updated ODRs if your situation is complex or changing rapidly.

When Should I Seek Legal Help?

Criminal-related license suspensions often involve complex legal issues that extend beyond simple reinstatement. If your suspension resulted from DUI charges, multiple violations or serious traffic offenses, the underlying criminal case may still be pending or may have consequences you haven’t fully addressed.

Legal representation becomes essential when:

• Your suspension involves pending criminal charges
• You face multiple suspensions or violations
• Court requirements are unclear or disputed
• You’re dealing with habitual offender proceedings
• Your case involves constitutional issues or procedural violations

An experienced criminal defense attorney can navigate both the criminal case and license reinstatement process simultaneously, often finding solutions that protect both your legal interests and your driving privileges.

Our Attorneys Help You Reclaim Your Independence

Obtaining your license back requires patience, attention to detail and the assistance of an attorney. While the reinstatement process can feel overwhelming, each step moves you closer to regaining your independence and getting your life back on track. If your case involves criminal charges or complex legal issues, contact the Law Offices of Shane O’Donnell today. We provide the experienced legal guidance you need to resolve both your criminal case and license reinstatement efficiently, protecting your rights while helping you move forward with confidence.