Why Is My New York License Suspended?

Published on 2/19/2012
Updated on 2/13/2025

Getting a notice in the mail from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles telling you that your driving privileges have been suspended can be a very unwelcome surprise. When a motorist’s license is suspended, The New York State DMV sends out a suspension notice through the mail. The letter explains the reasoning behind your suspension; however, it does not elaborate much. We have compiled a short list containing the most common reasons why your license would be suspended in New York State.

Six Reasons Why Your New York State License Was Suspended

1. You were suspended because of an insurance lapse.

Buying auto insurance and keeping insurance on the car is the law. If you let your insurance lapse by not paying the insurance premium or cancelling your insurance without returning your plates, your license can be suspended. Usually, the length of the suspension is the length of the insurance lapse.

2. You were suspended because you didn’t handle your traffic tickets.

Accumulating in a short amount of time or failing to answer tickets can lead to a suspension. You can retain a traffic ticket attorney to fight your tickets and clear your suspensions. The Benjamin Goldman Law Office can do this for you. Consider getting in touch with our firm for more information on how we would handle your tickets and suspension.

3. You were suspended because you owe taxes or child support

Whether you are behind on your child support obligations or have not paid the state of New York taxes you owe, your license can be suspended until you take care of (or make satisfactory arrangements to handle) those debts.

4. You were suspended for driving under the influence.

If you are caught driving after having too much to drink (blood alcohol content of between .05 and .07) or are pulled over when under the influence of a drug, a license suspension is just one of the many consequences you may face. Similarly, if you are under age 21 and are found to be driving in violation of New York state’s “Zero Tolerance” law (having a blood alcohol content of between .01 and .07), your license will without a doubt be suspended, on top of a possible arrest. The more serious violations will result in license revocation.

5. You were suspended for driving under 18 and didn’t follow the rules.

New York has a “graduated license” law for drivers under 18. If you don’t follow the restrictions under that program, your junior driver’s license can be suspended or revoked entirely. Underage drivers should pay extra attention to their driving habits and behaviors.

6. You were suspended for not reporting a car accident you were involved in.

New York’s Vehicle and Traffic laws specify that every driver involved in an accident in NY when there is property damage of $1,001 or more, or any accident in which a person is injured or killed, must file a “Report of Motor Vehicle Accident” with the DMV within ten days from the accident. Failing to file a report when required can result in the DMV suspending your driving privileges completely.

What Can I Do About My License Suspension?

If your New York State license has been suspended, consider contacting the Benjamin Goldman Law Office. We are an experienced New York State traffic law firm that assists motorists with their license suspensions. You need a knowledgeable advocate in your corner. An attorney who knows the ins and outs of the DMV’s suspension system will be able to help you through the steps you need to take, ultimately helping you to get back behind the wheel as quickly as possible. We handle cases across New York State, including the NCTPVA, SCTPVA, Queens TVB, Rochester TVA, and Buffalo TVA. Contact us at your convenience. We look forward to working with you.

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