How does the new license reinstatement law affect you?

Laws change, and in Illinois, a law passed in 2016 introduced significant changes regarding driver’s license reinstatement.

You need your car to get around and are probably used to driving on a daily basis. If the state suspended or revoked your driving privileges, what are the reinstatement requirements?

Driving with a BAIID

If you are a first DUI offender, Illinois requires you to have a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) installed in your vehicle if you have a Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP). If you have a Restricted Driving Permit (RDP), you can only drive with a BAIID in your car.

Restricted driving

There are several conditions attached to having a Restricted Driving Permit. The RDP allows for partial restoration of your driving privileges. For example, you may drive at certain times for work, to attend alcohol recovery meetings or to transport yourself or a family member for medical or educational purposes if no other means of transportation is available.

Formal versus informal hearing

If the state suspends or revokes your driving privileges, you will have to attend a hearing in order to have your driver’s license reinstated or to obtain a Restricted Driving Permit (RDP). A formal hearing is for drivers whose offense caused a fatality or great bodily harm or who have a record of multiple convictions for driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI). An informal hearing is for a first DUI offender or for a driver whose DUI charge does not involve a fatality. Having an attorney with you who is experienced with the reinstatement process will improve your chances of having your driving privileges restored.