What happens when your license is suspended in NY?

Answered by John Watkins

When your license is suspended in New York, it means that your driving privilege will be taken away for a certain period of time. This can be a definite suspension, which has a specific beginning and end date, or an indefinite suspension, which does not end until you take a required action.

During a suspension, you are not allowed to drive any motor vehicle in New York State. This includes cars, motorcycles, and even mopeds. It is important to remember that driving with a suspended license is a serious offense and can result in further penalties and consequences.

There are various reasons why your license may be suspended in New York. Some common reasons include:

1. Accumulating too many points on your driving record: In New York, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) operates on a point system. If you accumulate a certain number of points within a specific time period, your license can be suspended. The number of points required for a suspension depends on your age and the time period in which the points were accumulated.

2. Conviction of certain traffic offenses: Certain traffic offenses, such as driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI), can result in an automatic license suspension. Other serious offenses, such as reckless driving or leaving the scene of an accident, can also lead to a suspension.

3. Failure to pay fines or appear in court: If you fail to pay fines for traffic violations or fail to appear in court as required, your license can be suspended. It is important to take care of any outstanding tickets or legal obligations to avoid a suspension.

4. Insurance-related issues: Driving without valid insurance or allowing your insurance to lapse can lead to a license suspension. It is crucial to maintain the required minimum insurance coverage and ensure that it is always active.

When your license is suspended, you will receive a notice from the DMV informing you of the suspension and the reason for it. The notice will also provide information on how long the suspension will last and any required actions you need to take to reinstate your license.

To reinstate your license after a suspension, you may need to fulfill certain requirements. These requirements can include:

1. Serving the suspension period: You must wait out the specified suspension period before you can reinstate your license. This can range from a few weeks to several months or even years, depending on the reason for the suspension.

2. Paying a suspension termination fee: In some cases, you may be required to pay a suspension termination fee to reinstate your license. This fee can vary depending on the circumstances of your suspension.

3. Completing any required programs or courses: Depending on the reason for your suspension, you may need to complete certain programs or courses before you can reinstate your license. For example, if your license was suspended due to a DUI conviction, you may be required to complete a drug and rehabilitation program.

It is important to note that driving with a suspended license can lead to further penalties and consequences. If you are caught driving during a suspension, you can face additional fines, an extension of your suspension period, and even criminal charges.

When your license is suspended in New York, it means that your driving privilege is taken away for a certain period of time. The length of the suspension depends on the reason for the suspension, and you are not allowed to drive any motor vehicle during this time. To reinstate your license, you may need to fulfill certain requirements, such as serving the suspension period, paying a suspension termination fee, and completing any required programs or courses. It is crucial to follow the rules and regulations of the DMV to maintain a valid and legal driving status in New York.