Being found guilty for driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under influence (DUI) can affect your daily routine. Some of these effects include losing driving privileges and struggling to get to work.
If your license was suspended, you may be thinking of ways to get it back. Understanding the steps can help you plan carefully, avoid delays and proceed with clarity.
Steps to reinstate your license after a DWI
New Hampshire law requires you to complete certain steps before the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can reinstate your license. The requirements include:
- Complete an alcohol and drug evaluation: After a DWI-related suspension, you must undergo an alcohol and drug abuse screening. This evaluation determines if you need substance abuse counseling.
- Finish required education or counseling: If the evaluation recommends treatment, you must complete a state-approved impaired driver education program through the Department of Health and Human Services, then submit your certificate of completion to move forward with reinstatement.
- Pay all required administrative fees: The DMV will not restore your license until you pay all administrative fees.
- Provide proof of financial responsibility: You must show proof of insurance that meets state requirements before reinstatement.
- Follow all court-ordered conditions: Under New Hampshire law, a court may require you to install an alcohol ignition interlock device. In that case, the DMV will issue a restricted driver’s license and you may only drive a vehicle with an ignition interlock device until you have your full driving privileges back.
If the court finds you not guilty, you may request a license restoration without completing these requirements. After you have completed these requirements, you can start rebuilding your daily routine.
Moving forward after a license suspension
Losing your license affects your daily schedule and can add stress to your family. It is a relief to know that New Hampshire provides a path to license reinstatement.
Track your deadlines carefully, complete each requirement and keep copies of all your documents. Additionally, reviewing your checklist can help prevent any delays. If you need clarification about your legal rights and responsibilities after a drunk driving charge, consider checking official state websites or speaking with a professional.
