Dangerous, negligent or careless driving behavior can result in both serious legal consequences and the temporary or permanent loss of driving privileges.
If a driver's license is suspended, their driving privilege is temporarily withdrawn for a specific period and may be reinstated once the terms of the suspension are fulfilled.
Once the terms of the suspension have been fulfilled, a driver can
apply for a license at
a driver license office. In addition to the requirements for getting a driver license, some suspensions require proof of insurance at the time of reinstatement.
Reasons for suspension
Administrative Hearings
Many suspensions either require or can be shortened by an administrative hearing.
Ignition interlock devices
North Carolina G.S. 20-17.8 and G.S. 20-179.3 define when a driver is required to have the ignition interlock restriction on a license after certain convictions or affidavits.
Connected to a vehicle's ignition system, an ignition interlock device requires an individual to breathe into the equipment, which prevents the vehicle from starting if the individual's breath alcohol concentration is outside the acceptable range.
Ignition interlock devices are installed at the expense of the driver.
Effective June 1, 2022, a person who is ordered by a court, or required by statute, to install an ignition interlock system to lawfully operate a motor vehicle, but who is unable to afford the cost of an ignition interlock system, may apply to an authorized vendor for a waiver of a portion of the costs of an ignition interlock system. A person who applies for a waiver of the portion of the costs of an ignition interlock system shall provide the completed Vendor Interlock Hardship to an authorized vendor.
Ignition interlock providers
Continuous alcohol monitoring
In certain cases, NCDMV may grant the use of a continuous alcohol monitor device. Call 919-715-7000 for more information.
Carolina Monitoring Associates
| 252-702-8837
|
Continuous Alcohol Monitoring LLC
| 800-464-5917
|
| Offender Management Services | 803-814-3216 |
| Reliant Management Group | 919-754-9422 |
| Tarheel Monitoring | 910-763-1490 |
Driver improvement clinics
Drivers may request to attend a driver improvement clinic if they accumulate four points (on the eight-point scale) or seven points (on the 12-point scale) on their driving record.
To receive point credit, an individual must qualify and have a conference with an administrative hearings officer.
Drivers can attend driving improvement clinics once every five years. Upon satisfactory completion, three points are deducted from the driving record.
Download 2026 Driver Improvement Clinics Schedule
Eligibility Hearings
The NCDMV sends a letter to any individual who might qualify for a driver improvement clinic. Upon notification, they must
apply for a hearing and pay the associated fee. NCDMV will then assign a hearing date.
Fees
Hearing fee
Clinic fee
Frequently asked questions
Notice of Class Action Settlement