Can You Get a License in Another State if Suspended?

Can You Get a License in Another State if Suspended in Your Home State?

If your license was revoked in another state, you might think you’ll have no issue getting a license in your home state — or vice versa. However, in most cases, getting a license in one state after a suspension in another is challenging. In some states, it’s next to impossible. Even if you are able to obtain another license, you may be violating the law by doing so. Here’s a closer look.

Can Police Tell if Your License Is Suspended in Another State?

If your license is suspended in a different state, you might find that you’re still able to drive in your home state. However, if you lose your current license because you have moved to another state, your new state will likely check your driving records.

If your license is suspended elsewhere and your new state finds out, you likely won’t be able to receive a license until you have completed the terms of your suspension.

Police can usually tell if your license is suspended elsewhere thanks to something called the Driver License Compact (DLC). This is an agreement between most states to share information about license suspensions and certain vehicle-related offenses (like aggravated DUI or even violations of open container law).

The DLC helps ensure drivers are held accountable — and that they can’t circumvent suspensions by going to another state and getting a new driver’s license.

What State Can You Get a License in if You’re Suspended in Another One?

Although the majority of states participate in the Driver License Compact (DLC), there are a few states that don’t:

• Georgia
• Michigan
• Wisconsin

If your license is suspended in a different state, you might be able to obtain a new license in one of these states. However, the fact that these states don’t participate in the DLC doesn’t necessarily mean they won’t know about your license suspension. Serious offenses like DUI are often reported to other states — including those that aren’t members of the DLC.

Non-DLC states often have alternative ways to check your driving record before issuing you a license. These states commonly check the National Driver Registry (NDR), which includes information about driver’s license suspensions and revocations.

Even if one of these states doesn't have information about your existing suspension, you should think carefully before trying to obtain another license. Often, you must answer questions about existing licenses and current suspensions or revocations when you apply for a new license.

In some states, answering these questions might result in charges of fraud or perjury. If any state discovers you’ve answered these questions to obtain a driver’s license, you might face penalties like these:

• An extension of your current suspension or revocation
• Criminal charges
• Fines
• Jail time

These consequences may impact your life more than you realize. For instance, in many states, perjury is a felony. A felony conviction can lead to problems securing employment and the loss of your Second Amendment rights. In some states, felony convictions might make you ineligible for nutrition assistance and other government aid.

Does a Suspension Follow You to a New State?

Some people believe that if they have a driver’s license suspension, moving to a new state wipes the slate clean. This would be convenient if true, but unfortunately, license suspension generally carries over when you move.

In most cases, you must wait until your license suspension is over before applying for a driver’s license in your new home state.

How to Reinstate a Suspended License in a Different State

What happens if you move to a new state while your license is suspended? Exact procedures can vary based on the state, but generally, you can follow these steps:

Establish Residency and Research Licensing Requirements

Before getting a license in a new state, you need to establish residency. During this process, you can also research what documents you need to apply for a new license. Most states require proof of identity and proof of residence (like a signed lease or utility bill).

Visit the Local DMV

Online research may yield some answers, but sometimes, talking to someone at the local DMV can be more efficient. A DMV employee can see if your suspension has carried over to your new state. If it has, they can explain the steps you need to take.

Resolve Your Out-of-State Suspension

Most states require you to resolve your out-of-state suspension before applying for a new license. To resolve your suspension, you may be required to do at least one of the following:

• Pay a fine
• Complete community service
• Attend classes

The best way to increase your chances of quick license reinstatement is to be proactive. When you arrive in your new state, consult someone at the state’s licensing agency. They should be able to tell you how to reinstate your license after the suspension period is over.

If the process is unclear or you run into difficulties when trying to reinstate your license, it may be helpful to consult an experienced lawyer. Auto lawyers experienced in traffic law can offer clear, helpful guidance for navigating interstate license suspensions.

Can You Cross State Lines With a Suspended License?

If your license has just been suspended in one state, you might wonder if it’s legal for you to drive in the next state over. It may be technically legal, at least temporarily.

When your license is suspended in one state, it can take some time for the suspension to be entered into a computer system and communicated to other states. For example, if your license is suspended in Maryland and you get pulled over for speeding in Virginia a few hours later, the officer may not be able to tell if your license is suspended.

While you might be able to get away with this for a short time, it’s not generally a good idea. If your suspension information is communicated to other states faster than you expected, you could be charged with driving on a suspended license.

Do You Need an Attorney for a Suspended License Case?

Navigating a suspended license (or the possibility of license suspension) is more serious than figuring out how to fight a traffic ticket. If your license is suspended, you might have trouble getting to work, going to school or even doing essential household tasks like grocery shopping.

Depending on the circumstances, an attorney might be able to help you avoid suspension. However, even if your license is already suspended, your lawyer may be able to assist.

Some states may allow you to apply for a limited driving privilege, which is sometimes referred to as a hardship license. Usually, this privilege allows someone with a suspended license to drive to and from work and other essential places.

Whether you qualify for a hardship license depends on your state and the circumstances of your suspension. For instance, you’re more likely to qualify after a DUI first offense than after you’ve already been convicted of several DUIs.

An attorney can determine whether you’re eligible for a limited driving privilege and help you apply for one if you are.

Is It Time to Consult a Lawyer?

Dealing with a suspended license can be frustrating and overwhelming, especially if you rely on your vehicle to commute to work. If your license is currently suspended, the right lawyer might be able to help you get a hardship license. This is a limited driving privilege that allows you to drive to work, school or other essential places.

Whether you qualify for a hardship license depends on your state and the circumstances of your suspension. For instance, you’re more likely to qualify after a DUI first offense than after you’ve already been convicted of several DUIs.

No matter your situation, an experienced attorney can help you understand your options. If you’re ready to find a lawyer, fill out our form below for a free case review!