If a driver’s license is revoked for any reason, an application must be submitted to the Illinois Secretary of State’s office to have it returned.

To qualify, varying conditions must be met, depending on why the license was taken away. For example, if a license was revoked due to a DUI (driving under the influence), a person may have to:

• Be evaluated for alcohol or drug problems
• Successfully complete a rehab or alcohol and drug education program
• Appear in front of a Secretary of State hearing officer to re-apply for your license
• Show proof of your financial responsibility (generally, proof that you have insurance)
• Pay a reinstatement fee
• Pass the driver’s license examinations and pay the fee for a license

If the license has been revoked, limited driving-privileges may be granted if a person:

1. Has a job, is in school, or needs medical treatment
2. Must drive to get to these places

The license will only be good for certain hours and for certain areas or routes. This privilege is conditional. In some instances, you can ask the court to provide temporary driving privileges; in others, you have to apply to the Secretary of State. The only relief from a statutory summary suspension involves the installation of a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) on your vehicle (this does not apply to revocations for DUI convictions).

There are lawyers in Illinois who concentrate in representing individuals who want their driver’s license reinstated.

Note: This information was prepared as a public service by the Illinois State Bar Association and is a joint project with the Illinois Press Association. Its purpose is to inform citizens of their legal rights and obligations.