If you’re facing a license suspension in New York, you are not alone — and you have options. Every year, thousands of drivers across New York State lose their driving privileges for reasons ranging from unpaid tickets to more serious violations. A suspended license can have serious consequences, affecting your ability to work, care for your family, and live your life.
At Cabrera Law, we help drivers navigate suspensions and get back on the road legally. Here’s what you need to know — and what you should do if you’ve been notified that your license is suspended.
What Does It Mean to Have a Suspended License in New York?
In New York, a suspension means your driver’s license is temporarily invalid. Unlike a revocation, where your license is canceled and you must reapply, a suspension typically means you can get your license back by resolving the issue and paying a reinstatement fee.
But ignoring a suspension notice can lead to much bigger problems — including criminal charges for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation (AUO).
Common Reasons for Driver’s License Suspensions
There are many ways you can end up with a suspended license in New York, including:
- Unpaid Traffic Tickets: Failing to respond to tickets will result in a suspension.
- Insurance Lapse: A gap in your auto insurance coverage, even for a short time, triggers an automatic suspension.
- DWI or DWAI Arrests: Driving under the influence typically results in an immediate suspension, even before any conviction.
- Too Many Points: Accumulating 11 points on your license within 18 months can lead to a suspension.
- Child Support Arrears: Falling behind on child support payments can suspend your driving privileges.
- Judgment Suspensions: Losing a civil lawsuit related to a car accident and not paying the judgment can suspend your license.
Types of License Suspensions in New York
Understanding the type of suspension you have is critical:
- Definite Suspension: Your license is suspended for a set time period. After that period and payment of a fee, you can typically reinstate.
- Indefinite Suspension: Your license remains suspended until you take a required action, such as paying fines, providing proof of insurance, or attending court.
If you’re unsure, checking your status through the New York DMV Records Navigator can clarify your situation.
What Happens If You Drive With a Suspended License?
If you drive while suspended in New York, you can be arrested and charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation (AUO) — a criminal offense. Even a first offense can result in:
- A criminal record
- Fines and surcharges
- Possible jail time
- Increased insurance premiums
Repeated offenses or driving with a suspension from a DWI can result in even harsher penalties, including mandatory jail or probation.
The bottom line: If you receive a suspension notice, you must act quickly to protect yourself.
How to Fix a Suspended License in New York
If you’re wondering how to fix a suspended license or how to reinstate your license in New York, the steps depend on the cause of your suspension:
- Unpaid tickets: Pay the ticket or appear in court to resolve it.
- Insurance lapse: Provide proof of coverage and pay DMV civil penalties.
- DWI/DWAI: Comply with court and DMV requirements, including alcohol treatment programs if ordered.
- Too many points: Request a DMV hearing to contest the suspension or seek a point reduction course.
- Judgments: Satisfy the judgment amount or negotiate a payment plan.
Every case is different, which is why it’s critical to speak with an experienced attorney before taking action.
Why Hire Cabrera Law to Handle Your Suspension?
At Cabrera Law, we don’t just tell you what went wrong — we fight to fix it. We can:
- Analyze your driving record and suspension notices
- Resolve outstanding tickets or summonses
- Negotiate with courts and the DMV to lift or reduce suspensions
- Help you obtain a restricted license to drive legally during suspension periods
- Defend you against AUO criminal charges
We know the system, we know the courts, and we know how to protect your record.
Get New York DMV Suspension Help Now
If you’re asking yourself, “What should I do if my license is suspended in New York?”, the answer is simple: call Cabrera Law.
We offer fast, honest consultations to explain your rights and the best way forward. Don’t let a suspension derail your life — get professional help today.
Call us at (631) 352-2093 or email loricabrera@cabreralawny.com to schedule your consultation.
We’ll help you get back behind the wheel — legally.