Getting to work, buying groceries, and getting your kids to and from school is almost impossible in most areas in Western Pennsylvania if you don’t have a valid driver’s license. While ridesharing apps can help, they become expensive and time-consuming.
If your driver’s license is suspended, you should check to see what you can do to either get a limited license from the state or to get your license back.
Probationary and Limited Licenses:
In certain circumstances, Pennsylvania lets people with suspended licenses to apply for limited driving privileges.
Pennsylvania Probationary Driver’s License
The first type of limited license is the Probationary License.” If you have operating privileges that have been suspended or revoked for more than 5-years, you may qualify for a probationary license.
Probationary License Application
Occupational Limited License
Pennsylvania also offers certain suspended license-holders an Occupational Limited License (OLL). The OLL allows you to drive for work, school, or medical treatment.
OLL Application and Instructions
Ignition Interlock Limited License
If you have been convicted of certain Driving Under the Influence (DUI) charges, you may be eligible for an Ignition Interlock Limited License (IILL).
IILL Application and Instructions
Keep in mind that the probationary and limited licenses aren’t available to everyone. Also keep in mind that, in some cases, you may be required to serve part of your suspension before you are eligible for the probationary or limited license.
Getting Your License Back
No matter how long your license is suspended for, you should look into your options for getting it reinstated. The two parts of getting your license back are going to be: 1.) finding out why your license is suspended; and 2.) figuring out what you have to do to get it restored. In some cases, it may be as simple as paying a fine. In others, you may have to seek legal help to get the suspension lifted.
How to Get Your License Restored:
Step #1: Get your Restoration Requirements Letter from PENNDOT.
The letter will tell you why your license is suspended and will let you know what you need to do to get it back.
Request your Restoration Requirements Letter
Step #2: If the Restoration Requirements Letter isn’t clear about why your license is suspended, get a copy of your full driving history.
Request your Driver History and check it for any mistakes
Step #3: If necessary, get a copy of your criminal history from the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP).
In some cases, you will need to know what you were convicted of in order to figure out why your license is suspended. In those cases, you will want to order a full, Access and Review Criminal History from the Pennsylvania State Police.
Step #4: Using the records you received, figure out what you are required to do to get your license restored.
You may have to pay fines, submit proof that you completed required courses, respond to outstanding tickets, and pay a restoration fee.
If you have any questions about getting a limited license or getting your license restored, contact Pittsburgh Criminal Lawyer William R. Bickerton at (412) 596-8124.
With offices in Cranberry Township, Butler County and Ross Township, Allegheny County, Attorney William R. Bickerton has extensive experience helping clients get their driving privileges restored throughout the Greater Pittsburgh area.