Receiving a DWI conviction in North Carolina can be a life-altering event, with consequences that extend beyond the initial legal proceedings. One significant repercussion is the suspension of your driver’s license, which can affect your ability to work depending on what your occupation is. While the process of restoring your driving privileges is cumbersome, it is not impossible.
The specific requirements for restoring your license may vary depending on the circumstances of your case, but generally, you must do the following:
- Fulfill any court-mandated requirements – This may include completing any required substance abuse assessments, treatment programs or community service hours as ordered by the court.
- Serve any applicable license suspension period – Depending on the severity of the offense and whether it is a first-time or repeat offense, you may be required to serve a period of license suspension before becoming eligible for restoration.
- Pay reinstatement fees – Beyond the fines and penalties imposed for the DWI conviction itself, which can range from $200 to $10,000 depending on severity, there are additional expenses involved in the restoration process. These expenses typically include reinstatement fees imposed by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV), which can be up to $175 depending on the circumstances of your case.
- Submit a license restoration application – You will need to submit an application for license restoration to the NCDMV, along with any other required documentation, such as proof of completion of treatment programs or compliance with court orders.
- Attend a restoration hearing – In some cases, you may be required to attend a restoration hearing before the NCDMV to present your case for license restoration.
An experienced DWI attorney can provide invaluable guidance and support throughout every step of the restoration process. They can help you understand your rights and obligations, ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed accurately and on time and advocate on your behalf in any hearings or proceedings.
If you’re facing the challenge of restoring your license after a DWI conviction, the Carolina Law Group, led by Tommy Kellis, is dedicated to representing clients throughout North Carolina in these matters. With offices in New Bern and Morehead City, we are well-equipped to provide the guidance and representation you need during this challenging time. Don’t navigate the process alone—contact our firm today by calling 252-636-3737 or contacting us online to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward restoring your driving privileges.
