Reinstating A Driver's License

Here are some examples. Violating traffic laws can result in the suspension or revocation of your license.

• being the driver in an accident that results in the death or injury of another person

• You have committed enough traffic offenses. The state thinks you disrespect traffic laws and disregard others' safety, or

• Display a pattern of neglect or recklessness behind the wheel.

If authorities convict you, they may suspend or revoke your license.

• driving under the influence

• manslaughter or vehicular homicide

• negligent homicide resulting from a vehicle.

• using a vehicle to commit a felony

• Failure to stop at the scene of an accident if you caused injury or death to someone, or

• three charges of reckless driving within a year.

These are partial lists. You may lose your license for other driving offenses. This includes criminal convictions and other matters.

The easiest way to check for a suspended license in Louisiana is to visit www.expresslane.org. You can access the system by entering your driver’s license number. Also, enter the last four digits of your Social Security number. Once you’ve entered the site, you can ask to reinstate a license. Or, you can order a driving record. You can determine if your license is suspended by choosing either option.

You can also find the process to get back your driver's license. It's on the tab called "How to Reinstate Your Driver's License."

1. Do Not Drive
   • You can't drive if authorities suspend your license. People might still drive without knowing that their license is suspended or out of necessity. Yet, doing so can extend the suspension, increase fines, or lead to jail time.
2. Pay reinstatement fees.
   • You can wait out your suspension and pay the reinstatement fee. After your suspension ends, you will receive a notice. This notice will tell you how to get your license back. You must pay fees and fines and give any documents the DMV asks for, like proof of insurance.
   • While this may be the easiest way to get back your license, it will take time and money. Sometimes you can’t wait to get your license back.
3. Apply for a Hardship License
   • You may be eligible for a hardship license, which allows special driving privileges. For example, you can drive to school, work, or other places with a hardship license. Visit your local Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) to check if you qualify for a hardship license. 
   • If you're eligible, you apply by filing an SR-22 form with the OMV. You must pay a reinstatement fee and submit a court order. If you receive a suspension for a DWI, you must also install an ignition interlock device (IID).
   • It is important to note that you cannot use a hardship license to operate a commercial vehicle.
   • For more information, see Hardship Driver's Licenses. 

In Louisiana, to get back a driver's license, you may need these compliance documents:

• Proof of ticket payment or court documents for unpaid traffic tickets.

• Tax clearance letter or installment agreement for non-payment of taxes

• Release certificate from the Department of Social Services for non-payment of child support.

• Compliance documents and payment of fees for driving while suspended.

This list is not comprehensive. You must check to see what documents you need for each type of license suspension.

In Louisiana, reinstatement fees for driver's licenses vary. They depend on the offense and if it's a first or repeat offense.

• First offense: $25

• Second offense: $100

• Next offenses: $200 if they occur within five years.

• Nonpayment of child support: $60

• DWI offenses: $100–$300

Reinstatement transactions are available at the OMV field office by appointment only. You can also process reinstatement in the following ways:

1. Phone - Call 225-925-6146 and choose option 3.

2. Mail - OMV Mail Center, P.O. Box 64886, Baton Rouge, LA 70896

3. Online - Visit expresslane.org and select "Contact Us."

4. Public Tag Agent (PTA) - PTAs can perform limited reinstatement transactions.

   • You can find a list of Public Tag Agent locations here.