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- You cannot get a new license in a new state while your license is suspended. Until you meet the reinstatement requirements of your state, your license will remain suspended.
- States check the National Drivers Register (NDR) when a person applies for a driver’s license.
- You will have to take a driving skills test to get your license reinstated if it has been suspended for more than a year.
If your license is suspended in one state, you must deal with the suspension there and get that license reinstated before you obtain a new license in another state. Most importantly, if your license is suspended, don’t drive.
“If someone has a prior conviction for driving with a suspended license and continues to drive, they could be subjected to punitive damages or additional criminal charges if they get into a car accident for their willful failure to follow the law,” says Jason Turchin, Esq., an attorney with the Law Offices of Jason Turchin in Weston, Florida.
Why states share driver information
Most states in the U.S. participate in the Driver License Compact (DLC) and the National Driver Register (NDR). These systems allow DMVs to share information about suspensions, revocations, and major violations. That means if your license is suspended in one state, the information is typically available to others, preventing you from simply applying for a new license elsewhere.
Which states are not part of the Driver License Compact?
As of recent years, Georgia, Massachusetts, Michigan, Tennessee and Wisconsin have not fully joined — but they often still share information through other systems like the NDR.
What happens if you move to another state with a suspended license
If you relocate to another state, the DMV in your new state will usually check your driving history. If they find a suspension, they’ll deny issuing a new license until the suspension is cleared in the original state. In other words, moving won’t “reset” your driving record.
Exceptions and gray areas
- Non-participating states: While nearly all states share records, a handful of states have historically had different rules. However, even these states increasingly check the NDR before issuing licenses.
- Minor violations vs. major violations: In some cases, very minor violations may not transfer across state lines, but suspensions and DUIs almost always do.
- Timing: If your suspension period ends, you must usually provide proof (like a clearance letter) to the new state’s DMV.
Can another state suspend your license?
Another state may suspend your license for several reasons. Getting too many speeding tickets, driving under the influence, or leaving the scene of an accident may result in an out-of-state license suspension. Also, the state where the suspension is issued will inform your home state’s DMV using the National Driver Register.
All states check the National Drivers Register (NDR) when a person applies for a driver’s license. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) administers the NDR.
“You can check the status of a Nevada license and obtain reinstatement requirements by visiting dmv.nv.gov and using the Contact Us form,” says Kevin Malone, public information officer for the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles. “Nevada checks the National Driver Registry at each application for a driver’s license original, renewal or reinstatement.”
Insurance implications of a suspended license across states
If you attempt to drive in another state with a suspended license, you may face:
- Higher insurance premiums when you eventually reinstate coverage.
- A requirement to file an SR-22 or FR-44 (depending on state).
- Possible denial of coverage if insurers consider you high-risk.
Frequently Asked Questions: License suspensions
How long does a license suspension last?
Your license will remain suspended indefinitely until you meet all the state requirements and get a new license. The suspension is not limited.
You may have to take written, vision and driving skills tests to show you are prepared for the road. However, if your license has been suspended for over a year, you must take the driving skills test.
If you’re unsure whether your driver’s license is still suspended, make an appointment with your local DMV and visit an office in person or contact the DMV via phone or online.
How do you get your license reinstated?
You can reinstate your driver’s license, but you must follow your state’s requirements before obtaining a new license. While every state’s minimum penalty will vary, driving with a suspended license is a serious offense with severe consequences, such as fines and or jail time.
What happens after the suspension is resolved?
When your suspension or revocation is resolved, your first step is to get a clearance letter from the state where it was issued, which you’ll have to request and ensure it complies with all state requirements. You will also need a copy of your current driving record that is not more than 30 days old.
Take these documents along with your expired driver’s license to your DMV to have the suspension manually removed and pay a fine for reinstatement, which can vary depending on state law.
How do you check if your license is suspended in another state?
The best way to determine if your license is suspended is by contacting your Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) or Department of Driver Services (DSS) and enquiring about any violations on your driving record.
What happens to your auto insurance coverage after a license suspension?
You won’t immediately lose your auto insurance coverage if your license is suspended. This is because insurance follows the car and not the driver. While you will likely have coverage until the end of the policy’s term, you will eventually lose coverage. If other drivers are listed in the policy, you will need to be removed from the policy to retain coverage.
Why can’t I get a license in another state if my license is suspended?
You cannot get a driver’s license in a new state if your license is suspended in another state because states check the National Drivers Register (NDR) when an individual applies for a driver’s license. Your license will remain suspended until you meet the reinstatement requirements of your state.
Can I get a license in another state if mine is suspended?
Generally no. Most states will block you from applying until the suspension is resolved.
What if I serve my suspension — do I need to notify the new state?
Yes. Once the suspension is lifted, you’ll need proof from your old state’s DMV to show the new state you’re clear to apply.
Can I get car insurance with a suspended license?
You may be able to buy a policy to keep your vehicle insured, but you generally can’t drive. Many insurers will require you to file an SR-22 to reinstate your license.
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