A suspended driver’s license can throw a serious wrench into your life. In New Jersey, it’s a surprisingly common problem. A Rutgers University study showed that around 300,000 New Jersey residents are driving with a suspended license right now.
Understanding why your license might be suspended and how to get it back is crucial. This article breaks down the reasons for a license suspension in NJ, what to expect during a suspension hearing, and the steps you’ll need to take to get back on the road legally.
Reasons for Driver’s License Suspension in New Jersey
There are several ways you can lose your driving privileges in New Jersey.
Point System Violations
If you rack up 12 or more points on your driving record, you’re looking at a suspended license. The good news is those points don’t stick around forever: 3 points are removed each year you drive without violations.
Speeding and reckless driving are common violations that add points to your record.
Scheduled Suspension Notices
The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) sends out Scheduled Suspension Notices to let drivers know a suspension is coming. Reasons for these notices include:
- Driving While Suspended (DWS)
- Failure to appear in court
- Making false statements to the MVC
- Repeated traffic violations
- Involvement in a fatal accident
- Probation violations
Other Common Causes
You can also have your license suspended for:
- Unpaid parking tickets
- Unpaid child support
- MVC insurance surcharges
Understanding the Suspension Hearing Process
If you receive a Scheduled Suspension Notice from the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC), you’ll need to take quick action.
The notice means the MVC intends to suspend your driving privileges. At this point, you have a choice: accept the suspension or fight it by requesting a hearing.
To request a hearing, you’ll need to submit a formal written request before the suspension goes into effect. Be sure to clearly state what facts you’re disputing and the legal issues you want to address.
If you don’t request a hearing, or if your request is unclear, you may lose your chance to challenge the suspension.
Suspension hearings can be challenging, so it’s important to be prepared and present a strong case if you want to maintain your driving privileges.
Restoring Your Suspended Driver’s License in New Jersey
So, you’ve had your driving privileges taken away in the Garden State. Here are the steps you’ll generally need to take to get back on the road:
Initial Steps
- Call the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) at (609) 292-7500 to find out why your license was suspended and what steps you need to take.
- Check for any outstanding bench warrants using the New Jersey Municipal Court Case Search and New Jersey Promis Gavel.
- Order a copy of your driving record online so you have it handy.
Addressing Outstanding Issues
- If your license was suspended by a court (municipal or family court, for example), you’ll need to contact each court separately to resolve those issues.
- If you owe surcharges to the MVC, you can set up a payment plan.
Fees and Requirements
Be prepared to pay these fees:
- Restoration fee ($100)
- Registration fee ($100)
- New license fee ($24)
You may also have to retake your driving tests, so be sure to ask the MVC about that when you call.
Final Steps
Once you’ve cleared everything up, gather all your paperwork and head to a motor vehicle agency to get your license reinstated.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Dealing with a suspended license and trying to get it back can get really complicated. That’s where a lawyer can help.
A good attorney can:
- Request a hearing to challenge your suspension.
- Build a strong case on your behalf.
- Speed up the restoration process.
- Help clear up any outstanding court warrants.
If you’re a veteran or active military personnel, you may also want to contact Volunteer Lawyers for Justice (VLJ) for legal assistance.
Summary
In New Jersey, your driver’s license can be suspended for many reasons, and you have a right to request a hearing. If your license is suspended, there are specific steps you must take to get it restored.
If your New Jersey driving privileges have been suspended, it’s important to address the situation as quickly as possible. An experienced attorney can help you understand your options and navigate the complexities of the legal process.