According to the law, having a driver’s license is a privilege rather than a right. This means there is potential for it to be taken away in the event you’re found guilty of a traffic-related offense. Unfortunately, when a license is suspended or revoked, it becomes difficult to take care of day-to-day responsibilities. For this reason, it’s a good idea to hire an attorney to help you get back on the road as quickly as possible. Below are a few things you will need to know before beginning the process of reinstating your license in North Carolina.

A Guide to Regaining Driving Privileges After a Suspended or Revoked License

License Suspension 

When a license is suspended, driving privileges are withdrawn for a specified length of time. Once the term of the suspension has been satisfied, a license can be restored without having to reapply or take a driving test. Instead, motorists are simply required to pay a restoration fee to the DMV. 

License Revocation 

In contrast, if a driver’s license is revoked, driving privileges are completely terminated. To reinstate a revoked license, the motorist must meet certain eligibility guidelines, pay a fee, and reapply. They may also be required to retake the driving test and go through a hearing. Because the steps involved in reinstating a revoked license are much more complicated, it’s best to have an attorney help you build a strong argument for why you deserve to have your driving privileges once again. 

Why a License May Be Suspended or Revoked 

While there is a standard procedure for getting your license back, you may have to take additional steps depending on what led to your suspension or revocation in the first place. For example, if your license was suspended due to a first offense DWI conviction, you will need to pay an additional fee before you can drive again. If your driving privileges were taken away as part of a criminal sentence or for failure to pay child support, you will have to fulfill their requirements for a license reinstatement.

If you have been convicted of a traffic offense and the result is a suspended or revoked license, you shouldn’t hesitate to explore your options with an experienced attorney. The legal professionals at Moore Law Trial Lawyers understand the burden that comes from losing driving privileges and will work diligently to help you overcome this setback in a timely manner. Over the last two decades, they have routinely and successfully guided the residents of Rocky Mount, NC, through the process of restoring a license. To schedule a consultation with one of their accomplished attorneys, call (252) 443-2468. You can also visit them online for more information on the variety of areas they specialize in.