If you are disqualified from driving, you must reapply for your driving licence before you are legally allowed to drive again. The process depends on whether you are considered a ‘high risk offender’ or not.
High risk offenders
If you are a high risk offender, you can apply to have your driving licence restored 90 days before your disqualification ends. You also need to pass a medical examination before getting your driving licence back. You are a high risk offender if you -
- Have been convicted of two or more drink driving offences within the past 10 years
- Had a high level of alcohol in your body when you were arrested
- Refused a breath, blood or urine test
- Refused to allow a breath, blood or urine test because of incapacity
Non high risk offenders
If you are not a high risk offender, you can apply to have your driving licence restored 56 days before your disqualification ends. This is less time than high risk offenders because you do not need to take a medical examination.
How to reapply for your driving licence after disqualification
Normally what happens is that shortly before your disqualification period ends, the DVLA sends you a renewal form to complete. This is called a D27 form. You need to fill this out and send it back with the fee, along with any other requests (such as a passport photo).
If you do not receive the form or you have moved address, do not worry – you can always use a D1 form from a post office instead. However, be sure that you do not apply too far in advance. Remember, you can apply 90 days before your disqualification period ends if you are a high risk driver. Everyone else must wait until 56 days before their ban ends.
If you are a high risk offender, you will then be asked to make an appointment with a doctor for your medical examination. This involves a physical exam, a blood test and a questionnaire about your alcohol use. If you are not a high risk offender, you do not need to bother with a medical examination.
If the DVLA is satisfied that your driving licence can be restored, you will receive your licence in the post. You must wait at least three weeks before chasing the matter up.
You cannot drive until your disqualification period has ended. Once the ban has come to an end you may be able to drive, even if your physical licence has not yet arrived. However, this is only allowed if the DLVA has accepted your application and there are no medical reasons that prevent you from driving.
Early restoration of your driving licence
If your driving ban is for two years or more, you may be able to apply for the early restoration of your licence. This means you can get your driving licence back before serving the entire length of your ban. To do this, you need to make an application to the court. If this is successful, you need to reapply for your driving licence through the DVLA.
Contact us now
It can be confusing to know when you can and cannot get your driving licence back, especially if you would like to have your licence restored early. If you would like expert advice from a motoring offence lawyer, please do not hesitate to contact us now.
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