How to Tell if Your License Has Been Suspended

Once you know what kind of circumstances can lead to a suspension, you can then call the DMV or visit the MyDMV website to find out if you license has been suspended.

You might assume that if your license has been suspended, you would know about it. Unfortunately, there are many instances when New York drivers are pulled over only to discover that they have been unknowingly driving with a suspended license.

The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles always notifies drivers in writing of any suspension or revocation. This letter is sent to the address listed on the license, but it’s easy for such a notice to get lost in a deluge of junk mail.

The first step the knowing if your license has been suspended is to understand what kind of circumstances can lead to a suspension. This can include:

• Failing to respond to a traffic ticket
• Failing to appear at traffic court
• Accruing 11 points or more on your license
• Getting convicted of speeding three times in 18 months
• Getting convicted of speeding in a work zone twice in 18 months
• Driving without insurance
• Failing to pay child support

If you know or suspect you have committed a suspension-worthy offense — or just want to be on the safe side — it is essential that you verify that your license has been suspended. There two ways to do that:

• Call the DMV by dialing (518) 473-5595 to get information about your license status. You’ll have to navigate a lot of menu options, but it is well worth it if there is any risk your license has been suspended.
• Check online. The DMV offers a service called MyDMV, which allows you to renew vehicle registrations and check the status of your license. If you’ve never used the site before, you can sign up using the information on your license.

If you discover your license has been suspended, do not get behind the wheel! If you’re caught driving with a suspended license in New York, you could be charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation (AUO). This is a criminal misdemeanor that can sometimes result in felony charges. A conviction will also cause your insurance premiums to skyrocket or result in you being dropped by your insurer altogether.