Ohio Suspended License Guide: How to Check Status & Reinstatement

If you are worried that your Ohio driver’s license might be suspended, or if you already know it is and need to get back on the road, you are likely dealing with a confusing mix of court orders and BMV letters.

A suspended license in Ohio is not a permanent “revocation,” but it does mean your driving privileges are on hold until you complete a specific checklist of requirements.

This guide will show you how to check your official license status for free, explain the most common reasons for suspensions (like the “12-Point” rule), and provide the step-by-step process to reinstate your license.

How to Check if Your License is Suspended in Ohio

You do not need to guess. The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) provides a free online tool to check your status.

The “Unofficial” 2-Year Record (Free Method):

1. Go to the Ohio BMV Online Services portal.
2. Select “BMV Online Services” and then “Unofficial Driving Record.”
3. Log in using your Last Name, Date of Birth, SSN (last 4 digits), and Driver’s License Number.
4. View Your Status: The record will clearly state “VALID,” “SUSPENDED,” or “EXPIRED” at the top. It will also list your active points.

The “Official” Notice (Form BMV 2006):

If you are suspended, the BMV usually mails you a notification called Form BMV 2006. This document is your “roadmap.” It lists exactly why you were suspended and the specific dates your suspension begins and ends.

How to Reinstate Your Ohio Suspended License

Reinstatement is not automatic. Even after your suspension time “ends,” your license remains invalid until you complete these steps.

Step 1: Check Your Reinstatement Requirements

Log in to the BMV Online Services portal again. Look for the “Reinstatement Requirements” link. This will give you a personalized checklist. You typically cannot pay fees until all other requirements (like serving jail time or filing forms) are met.

Step 2: File Proof of Insurance (SR-22 Bond)

For almost all suspensions (Non-Compliance, 12-Point, OVI), you must prove you are insured for the future.

• You must buy an SR-22 Bond from an insurance company.
• This is a certificate your insurer files electronically with the BMV.
• Warning: You usually must maintain this SR-22 for 3 to 5 years. If you miss a payment and the policy lapses, your license will be suspended again immediately.

Step 3: Complete Any Required Courses

• For 12-Point Suspensions: You must complete a Remedial Driving Course (different from the basic defensive driving class).
• For OVI: You may need to complete a Drivers’ Intervention Program (DIP).

Step 4: Pay Your Reinstatement Fees

Once all other items are marked “Compliant” on your online dashboard, you can pay your fees.

• Online: Pay via the BMV Online Services portal (Credit/Debit card).
• In-Person: Visit a Deputy Registrar agency (Note: A $10 service fee is often added).
• By Mail: Send a check or money order to the Ohio BMV (P.O. Box 16520, Columbus, OH 43216).

Note: Fees vary based on the offense date. For example, a “Non-Compliance” fee is often $40, while an OVI reinstatement fee can be $475.

Step 5: Retake Your Tests (If Required)

If your license was expired for more than 6 months during your suspension, or if it was revoked, you must retake the knowledge (written) and skills (road) tests before a new license can be issued.

What are The Common Reasons for License Suspension in Ohio

Ohio suspensions generally fall into two categories: BMV Administrative Suspensions and Court-Ordered Suspensions.

A. Non-Compliance (No Insurance)

This is one of the most common administrative suspensions. If you are caught driving without insurance, or if you receive a “Random Selection” letter to prove coverage and fail to respond:

• First Offense: Your license is suspended until you pay a reinstatement fee (typically $40–$100) and file an SR-22 certificate.
• Second Offense (within 5 years): A mandatory 1-year suspension.
• Third Offense: A mandatory 2-year suspension.

B. 12-Point Suspension

Ohio uses a point system. If you accumulate 12 points on your record within a 2-year period, your license is automatically suspended for 6 months.

• Note: You can earn a “2-point credit” by taking a remedial driving course before you hit 12 points, but once you hit 12, the suspension is mandatory.

C. Security & Judgment Suspensions

If you are involved in an accident without insurance and cause damages, or if a court issues a judgment against you for unpaid damages related to an accident, your license can be suspended indefinitely until the debt is satisfied or a payment plan is established.

D. OVI / ALS (Administrative License Suspension)

If you are arrested for Operating a Vehicle Impaired (OVI) and either fail a chemical test or refuse to take one, your license is immediately suspended on the spot. This is separate from any criminal jail time you might receive later.

Can I Drive to Work While Suspended? (Limited Privileges)

If you are serving a long suspension (like for an OVI or 12 points), you may be eligible for Limited Driving Privileges.

• This is not granted by the BMV. You must petition the Court that suspended you (or your local municipal court).
• If granted, the judge will issue a court order allowing you to drive for specific purposes: work, school, medical appointments, or taking the driver’s license exam.
• You must keep this court order in your car at all times.

Frequently Asked Questions