The Steps to Get Your Driver’s License Reinstated in Benton, MO depends depending on what caused your license was revoked — but no matter the reason, the procedure is often complicated, lengthy, and bogged down with red tape. At Combs Waterkotte, our skilled traffic attorneys in Missouri are here to help you through every step. Call (314) 900-HELP for a free consultation or contact us online to start working on your Benton, MO, license reinstatement.
Table of Contents
- Do I Need an Attorney for License Reinstatement in Benton, MO?
- Understanding Missouri’s Driver License Points System
- How to Reinstate a Suspended or Revoked License in Benton, MO
- Common Reasons for Missouri Driver’s License Suspension or Revocation
- What Happens If You Drive on a Suspended License?
- Can I Get a Restricted or Limited Driving Privilege?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Get Help with Your Benton, MO, License Reinstatement Today
Do I Need an Attorney for License Reinstatement in Benton, MO?
If your Missouri driver’s license has been suspended or revoked, you might wonder whether hiring a lawyer is necessary — it really depends on your unique case.
Certain reinstatements don’t require legal assistance and can be done independently, yet many involve complexities that make attorney support crucial.
Situations Where You Might Not Need a Lawyer
For less complicated cases, you can often follow the Missouri DOR’s reinstatement procedures on your own. These include:
- Point Suspensions: If your license was suspended because of excessive points from moving violations, you’ll typically need to:
- Submit a $20 reinstatement fee
- Provide and keep an SR-22 insurance form for two years
- Retake the full driver exam if you’ve been revoked longer than one year
- Non-Alcohol-Related Violations: Offenses like speeding or failure to yield usually only require the reinstatement fee and SR-22 filing.
- Unpaid Accident Judgments: If your license was suspended over an accident-related judgment, you’ll have to pay the required amount (or enter a payment arrangement), submit an SR-22 form, and pay the reinstatement fee.
While the procedures can be detailed and cumbersome, many motorists manage to complete them by carefully following DOR rules and deadlines.
When Hiring an Attorney Is Necessary | Benton, MO, Driver’s License Reinstatement Lawyers
There are cases that involve greater complexity and risk, where having an attorney is highly beneficial. These include:
- DWI/DUI or Alcohol-Related Offenses: If your license was suspended due to driving under the influence, reinstatement may require:
- Paying a $45 reinstatement fee
- Filing and maintaining SR-22 insurance for two years
- Completing the Substance Abuse Traffic Offender Program (SATOP)
- Installing an Ignition Interlock Device (IID), especially for repeat offenses
- Five- or Ten-Year License Denials: For drivers with multiple alcohol-related convictions, reinstatement is not automatic — you must:
- Petition the circuit court in the county of your last conviction
- Pass a criminal history check
- Show no alcohol-related offenses during the denial period
- Provide proof of SATOP completion and IID installation
The court needs to be convinced that you do not threaten public safety before directing the DOR to reinstate your license.
- Applying for a Limited Driving Privilege (LDP): When full reinstatement isn’t an option but driving remains necessary for work, school, or medical needs, applying for an LDP can help. This process may involve:
- Filing a court petition or going through the DOR application process
- Providing an SR-22 insurance form
- Having an IID in some cases
In all of these situations, an attorney can be instrumental in handling the paperwork, meeting deadlines, representing you in court, and ensuring you don’t miss a critical step that could derail your case.
Next Steps
- Obtain Your Driver Record: Reach out to the Missouri Department of Revenue or obtain your Missouri driver’s record online to understand why your license was suspended and what’s required for reinstatement.
- Consider the Complexity: Cases with multiple offenses, alcohol-related suspensions, or long-term denials should prompt consultation with a Missouri traffic lawyer.
- Follow Reinstatement Instructions: For less complicated cases, diligently follow all DOR instructions — paperwork, payments, and tests — to reinstate your license.
Bottom line: You might not always need a lawyer for license suspensions, but when your case is challenging, a knowledgeable defense attorney can save you effort, lessen stress, and markedly increase your likelihood of license reinstatement — both legally and quickly. Contact Combs Waterkotte to speak with a Missouri traffic lawyer today.
Understanding Missouri’s Driver License Points System
Missouri employs a points system to monitor moving violations. When you are convicted — whether for speeding, failing to stop at a red light, or a more severe offense such as DUI — points are assigned to your driver’s license. The severity of the violation determines the number of points added.
Here’s a basic overview of how license points are calculated in Missouri and what effect they may have on your driving privileges over time:
- 2–3 points – Minor violations like speeding or failure to yield
- 4–8 points – More serious violations like reckless driving or DUI
- 8 or more points in 18 months – Can trigger a license suspension
- 12 points in 12 months, 18 in 24 months, or 24 in 36 months – May result in license revocation
- Some individual offenses – Can lead to immediate revocation under Missouri law
One common reason drivers in Benton, MO face license suspension or revocation is due to accumulating points.
| Violation | Points Added to License |
|---|---|
| Leaving the scene of an accident | 12 points |
| DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) | 8–12 points (depending on severity) |
| Driving with a suspended or revoked license | 12 points |
| Knowingly allowing an unlicensed driver to operate your vehicle | 4 points |
| Reckless or careless driving | 2–4 points |
| Speeding (depending on severity) | 2–3 points |
| Failure to yield, stop, or obey traffic signals | 2–3 points |
| Any felony involving a motor vehicle | 12 points |
| Driving the wrong way on a highway | 2 points |
| Out-of-state moving violations | 2 points |
Points remain on your record for several years, decreasing gradually if no new violations occur. These points can influence your license status, car insurance rates, employment prospects, and court outcomes.
Knowing how points are assessed and prevented is critical to preserving your driving privileges. Learn more about traffic violations and contact our Missouri traffic ticket lawyers for legal support.
How to Reinstate a Suspended or Revoked License in Benton, [state[
If your license has already been suspended or revoked, here’s what it typically takes to get it reinstated in Missouri. The exact steps vary depending on the type and length of your suspension or revocation, but most cases follow this general order:
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Step 1: Serve the required suspension or revocation period.
You cannot apply for reinstatement until the full suspension or revocation period has been served.
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Step 2: Complete any court-ordered programs.
For example, if you were ordered to complete a Substance Abuse Traffic Offender Program (SATOP) or other treatment, finish these requirements first.
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Step 3: Obtain and file proof of insurance if required.
Certain violations require you to submit Form SR-22 or other documentation proving financial responsibility.
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Step 4: Pay all applicable reinstatement fees.
The cost to reinstate your license varies by violation, typically from $20 to $400. See the full fee chart from the Missouri Department of Revenue.
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Step 5: Pass any required driver exams.
You may have to retake driver’s license exams — including written, eye, or road tests — as part of the process. Review the Missouri Required Driver Exams page for more info.
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Step 6: Submit all required compliance documents to the Missouri Department of Revenue.
Make sure to turn in all required paperwork — including proof of insurance, exam results, and program completion. Review the official reinstatement checklist.
Not completing or delaying any necessary step may slow your reinstatement. Because of the complicated nature, many drivers seek help from attorneys experienced in Missouri traffic law.
Need help figuring out exactly what applies to your case? Contact Combs Waterkotte to speak with an experienced Missouri traffic attorney today.
Common Reasons for Missouri Driver’s License Suspension or Revocation
There are several common traffic-related reasons Missouri drivers face license suspension or revocation. Knowing these reasons is an important first step in navigating the license reinstatement process and protecting your driving privileges.
- Accumulating points from moving violations like speeding or failing to obey traffic signals — too many points in a short timeframe can trigger a suspension.
- Alcohol- and drug-related offenses such as DUI/DWI or felony DWI almost always cause automatic license revocation.
- Charges related to hit and runs or leaving the scene of an accident — failing to stop and exchange information, even if no injuries were caused, can lead to suspension or criminal penalties.
- Driving without insurance or not producing proof of insurance — all Missouri drivers must demonstrate financial responsibility.
- Driving charges for reckless or careless (imprudent) driving are more serious than speeding and often include risks to others on the road, like child endangerment, which carries increased penalties.
- Failing to settle traffic tickets or appear in court — unresolved violations can lead to suspension of your license.
- Failure to satisfy reinstatement conditions post-suspension — for example, not finishing SATOP or not providing required insurance paperwork.
- Breaching court-ordered probation, particularly related to DWI, drug offenses, or traffic convictions. Learn more here.
- Failure to pay child support — Missouri can suspend your license for falling behind on court-ordered child support payments, even if your driving record is otherwise clean.
- Possession or consumption of alcohol underage — Missouri’s “Abuse and Lose” statute permits suspending a license regardless of vehicle involvement.
- Minors can also lose driving privileges for education-related issues — including dropping out, chronic truancy, low GPA, or being caught with graffiti or vandalism charges.
- License suspension may occur due to criminal offenses such as drug charges, theft, borrowing another’s license, lying on applications, or license fraud based on your record or court results.
If you suspect your license is suspended, acting early is crucial. Early detection can prevent delays, extra expenses, and harsher consequences later. Contact our defense attorneys promptly.
What Happens If You Drive on a Suspended License?
Driving on a suspended or revoked license in Benton, MO, is more than just a traffic offense — it’s considered a misdemeanor or even a felony in certain situations. Penalties may include heavy fines, possible jail time, longer suspension periods, and a lasting mark on your driving record.
If you are found guilty of driving while suspended or revoked, expect a more difficult and extended reinstatement process. You might be barred from applying for a Limited Driving Privilege in the future. When unsure of your license validity, it’s wise to talk to a traffic attorney before driving.
Can I Get a Restricted or Limited Driving Privileges in Benton, MO?
A suspended or revoked Missouri license may qualify you for a Limited Driving Privilege (LDP), also called a hardship license. It permits driving for essential needs like work, school, medical care, court-ordered tasks, and family duties such as childcare or transporting your children. Typically, these cover:
- Work
- School
- Medical appointments
- Court-ordered obligations
Whether you qualify depends on several important factors, including:
- Why your license was suspended or revoked
- Your past driving record and any previous traffic or moving offenses
- Meeting prerequisites like an SR-22 filing
- Some offenses, like certain felony DWIs, may disqualify you entirely
For more information on Limited Driving Privileges, visit this page, or reach out to one of our driver’s license reinstatement attorneys in Benton, MO, to see if you are eligible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
See below for some commonly asked questions about getting your license reinstated in Missouri. If you have other questions, call us at (314) 900-HELP.
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When might it be necessary to hire a lawyer for reinstating my license?
If there are complicated factors like several suspensions, court orders, substance abuse programs, or previous denial of reinstatement, an attorney’s guidance can help you succeed.
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What are the most common reasons for a Missouri driver’s license suspension or revocation?
Often, suspensions or revocations result from too many traffic violation points, DUI/DWI offenses, lack of insurance, unpaid tickets or child support, and specific criminal or probation violations.
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How much time does the license reinstatement process generally require?
The duration depends on the kind of suspension, required steps, and paperwork. Some drivers manage to reinstate their license in a few weeks, but others face extended delays, especially when issues occur.
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Is driving permitted during a license suspension or revocation?
No. Driving with a suspended or revoked license is illegal and can lead to criminal charges, fines, jail time, and even longer suspension periods.
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How does a Limited Driving Privilege (LDP) work in Missouri?
An LDP permits driving for critical tasks like work, schooling, or medical appointments when your license is suspended or revoked, but only if you qualify.
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What could occur if I fail to meet deadlines or provide incorrect forms during reinstatement?
Your reinstatement could be delayed or denied, extending your suspension or revocation if you miss deadlines or file incorrect forms.
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What role does an attorney play if my reinstatement is refused?
An attorney can review your case, identify issues that led to denial, assist in filing appeals or motions, and negotiate with the Missouri Department of Revenue or courts to resolve problems and secure reinstatement.
If you require personalized help or have any questions, please contact us or call (314) 900-HELP.
Get Help with Your Benton, MO, License Reinstatement Today
No two reinstatement cases are identical, but at Combs Waterkotte, we have supported numerous Missourians in regaining their driving privileges after suspension or revocation. Whether your issue involves points, DWI, or driving while suspended, we’re equipped to guide you and fight for the results you want.
Other legal services we provide Benton, MO, clients include:
Take a look at our past case results and client reviews to understand what we’ve achieved. Then contact us online or call (314) 900-HELP for a no-cost consultation. The sooner you start, the sooner you can drive again with your reinstated Benton, MO, driver’s license.
