What to Do When You Have a Suspended License

If you are unsure whether you have a suspended or revoked license, the first thing to do is check with the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to request a copy of your driving record. If you are worried that a recent traffic violation may have been sufficient for the DMV to revoke your license, or recently received some notice of a license revocation that you believe to have been in error, request a complete copy of your driving record from the DMV.

Under what circumstances can I have my license revoked?

In North Carolina, the DMV may revoke your license for a number of driving related reasons, including the following:

• Moving violations—If you accumulate more than 12 points on your driver's license in any three-year period, the DMV will revoke your license for up to 60 days. If you accumulate another eight points in the following three years, the DMV will revoke your license for up to six months
• Speeding—Excessive speed—e.g., more than 15 miles per hour over the speed limit—will result in temporary license revocation
• DWI—Any conviction for driving while intoxicated (DWI) will result in the DMV revoking your license for a year. A second DWI arrest within three years of your first DWI conviction will lead to a four-year license revocation

You may also lose your license for pre-arranged racing on public highways, refusing to take a breathalyzer test, driving without insurance or repeatedly allowing your insurance to lapse, or repeat reckless driving offenses.
Additionally, you may find your license revoked for failure to pay child support if you get 90 days or more behind on court-ordered payments.

What should I do if my license is revoked?

Under no circumstances should you drive with a revoked license. In North Carolina, driving with a revoked license is a Class One misdemeanor that can lead to high fines and prison time, and much longer—and eventually permanent—revocation of your license. 

Instead, speak with a Charlotte traffic violation attorney about the possibility of getting a conditional license to permit you to drive to work, school, doctor appointments, or rehabilitation. A skilled traffic violations lawyer may also be able to help you clean up your driving record and get your license reinstated faster.

Get help from a seasoned North Carolina traffic violations attorney

The Law Offices of Estwanik & May, PLLC, can help with any of the following traffic matters:

• Alcohol-related violations
• License issues and revocations
• Moving violations
• Vehicle violations

Please contact us today to arrange a free initial consultation to discuss how to keep your license in good standing. We invite you to call us at 888-352-9254, contact us through our website, or visit our conveniently located Charlotte offices.