Federal & State Lawfederalstatelaw.com
Back to Questions
trafficVA

How do I get my driver's license reinstated in Virginia?

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: 2026-05-17

Virginia driver's license reinstatement is administered by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) under Title 46.2.

1. Common Suspension Causes

  • DUI (Va. Code § 18.2-266): 12-month suspension for 1st offense; 3-year revocation for 2nd within 10 years.
  • Demerit Points: 18 points in 12 months or 24 in 24 months triggers driver-improvement requirements.
  • No insurance: $600 uninsured-motorist fee + 3-year suspension/FR-44 (Va. Code § 46.2-707).
  • Failure to pay court costs/fines: VA eliminated automatic suspension for unpaid court fines in 2020 (§ 46.2-395 repealed).
  • Failure to appear: indefinite suspension.
  • Child support arrears: suspension via DCSE referral (Va. Code § 63.2-1937).

    • 2. Reinstatement Steps

  • Pay the reinstatement fee — $40–$220, varies by suspension (Va. Code § 46.2-411).
  • File FR-44 insurance for 3 years post-DUI (50/100/40 minimum — higher than SR-22).
  • Complete VASAP (Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program) for DUI.
  • Install Ignition Interlock for DUI restricted license (mandatory under § 18.2-270.1).
  • Complete a Driver Improvement Clinic if assigned.

    • 3. Restricted License

    After a DUI conviction, courts may issue a Restricted Driver's License (Va. Code § 18.2-271.1) allowing travel for work, school, medical, child care, court, religious services, and VASAP.

    4. Online Reinstatement

    Most non-DUI reinstatements can be done at dmvnow.com after compliance is verified.

    This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • License suspension after DUI, especially with prior offenses
    • Suspension for child support arrears requiring family-court action
    • CDL holder facing suspension affecting livelihood
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • Va. Code § 46.2-411
    • Va. Code § 18.2-266
    • Va. Code § 18.2-271.1
    • Va. Code § 46.2-707
    • Va. Code § 63.2-1937

    This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.