Releasing Illinois Hold on Out-of-State License

Located in Springfield, Harvatin Law Offices provide unparalleled service and a flexible fee schedule for drivers with DUI convictions in Illinois. Even if you have moved away, we can help you release the hold on your out-of-state license. Having handled all types of issues regarding Illinois driver’s licenses cases, we have a detailed understanding of the process and can dramatically improve your chances of getting back on the road.

Illinois Hold on Driver’s License After DUI Conviction

Illinois traffic laws apply to in-state and out-of-state residents alike. Non-resident drivers arrested for DUI are subject to the same rules governing the suspension and revocation of their driver’s license. In fact, the Secretary of State can place a hold on any license after an accident involving alcohol or drugs. A “hold” prevents drivers from renewing their license. The hold appears in the federal government’s National Driver Register, which all states check before issuing and renewing a license. The only way for out-of-state drivers to remove the hold is to petition the Secretary of State through an “out-of-state packet” or an in-person hearing in Illinois. Until then, their driving privileges will be on hold.

Successfully Completing an Out-of-State Packet

Residents living beyond the Illinois border may opt to proceed through the mail using an out-of-state packet. At first glance, the 14-page packet may seem like a simple do-it-yourself project, but it is not. The paperwork and affidavits require very detailed information and the proper supporting documents. If anything is missing or out of place, the Secretary of State may reject the filing or demand additional evidence. Poorly-prepared packets may result in a denial or make it more difficult to succeed on future petitions. Each cycle of paperwork pulls the driver further from obtaining relief. The packet requires basic documents, including:

• Completed questionnaire
• Proof of state residency
• State driving abstract
• Completion of treatment program
• Minimum of three character references
• $50 filing fee
• Drug and alcohol evaluation

But providing the “bare minimum” is never enough. The Secretary of State may give you further instructions to take further action or request additional evidence such as:

• Prior DUI arrests
• Dates, places of arrests
• Description, types of treatment
• Proof of past alcohol/drug evaluation

Much can go Wrong During the Process

Properly preparing an out-of-state packet and providing the right documents can be difficult. It is not like sending a mail-in rebate. There are specific nuances in the petition that most applicants are unlikely to understand. Obtaining the proper affidavits and evaluations alone is a test. Many character witnesses and out-of-state evaluators fail to comply with the specific instructions outlined by the Illinois Secretary of State. Even in-state evaluators can have a difficult time helping the applicant. Those who come to Illinois without skilled representation for an in-person hearing fare no better. Showing up alone to answer questions from an unfamiliar hearing officer and experienced opposing counsel is no picnic. Each delay in lifting the hold on your license can diminish your chances of driving again.

Get it Right From the Beginning and Reinstate Your License

Lifting the hold on your out-of-state license requires clever counsel. This does not mean paying a fortune for the travel expenses of a big-city partner; a local, experienced lawyer that actually understands Illinois driver’s license hearings can do the best job. Situated steps away from the Springfield Secretary of State, Harvatin Law Offices is dedicated to defending drivers’ rights. With 15 years of experience as a hearing officer, Mr. Harvatin knows what it takes to reinstate your license. He knows the individual style of the assigned officers and what they are looking for in your out-of-state hearing or packet. There is no substitute for his first-hand experience and dedicated service for each client. At Harvatin Law Offices, we can help you release a hold by Illinois on your out-of-state license. Call 217.525.0520 today for a confidential consultation, or contact us online.