How can I check whether my license is suspended?
Every state's DMV or motor vehicle agency offers a way to check your license status — most have an online portal. You'll typically need your driver's license number and some personal information. We've listed the direct resources for each state we serve below.
Online License Status Portals
Each of the 10 states we serve has its own motor vehicle agency where you can check your license status. Here's where to look:
- Arizona — Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). Offers online driver license status checks.
- California — California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Online driver record requests available.
- Florida — Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). License check available online.
- Illinois — Illinois Secretary of State. Provides online driving record abstracts.
- Missouri — Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR). Online driver license status inquiries.
- Nevada — Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Online license status lookup available.
- South Carolina — South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Online driving record access.
- Tennessee — Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (DOS). Online driver license checks.
- Texas — Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Online driver license status and eligibility checks.
- Virginia — Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Online transcript requests available.
Search for your state's agency by name to find the current portal. We don't link directly because agencies update their websites, but the agency names above will get you to the right place.
What to Do if You're Suspended
If you find out your license is suspended, don't panic. Here's the typical path back:
- Find out why. The suspension notice or your driving record will list the reason — DUI, too many points, failure to maintain insurance, unpaid fines, or something else.
- Handle any outstanding requirements. This might mean paying fines, completing a court-ordered program, or serving out a waiting period.
- Get your SR22 filed. Most suspensions that require an SR22 won't be lifted until the state receives your SR22 certificate from an insurance company.
- Pay the reinstatement fee. Every state charges a reinstatement fee to reactivate your license. The amount varies by state and reason for suspension.
How SR22 Fits In
If your suspension requires an SR22 filing, you'll need to purchase an SR22 insurance policy before the state will reinstate your license. The insurance company files the SR22 certificate electronically with the state — we file every policy the same day you purchase it.
Once the state processes the filing (typically one to three business days for electronic filings), you can complete the reinstatement process. Some people get their SR22 filed first and then handle the other requirements, while others save the SR22 for last. Either way works — just make sure everything is done before you try to drive.
Not sure where you stand? Call us at (855) 678-6977. We deal with this every day and can walk you through the steps for your state.
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