After a DUI conviction in Florida, your license is suspended. Getting it back requires completing several steps — and they must be done in roughly the right order. Missing any step means DHSMV won't process your reinstatement.
The good news: We handle the FR44 insurance step — which is the one most people find confusing and time-consuming. Once we file your FR44, you're one major step closer.
The mandatory suspension depends on your offense:
Your court paperwork or DHSMV suspension notice will specify your exact suspension period.
Florida requires completion of a state-approved DUI school (also called DUI Level I education for first-time offenders). This is typically a 12-hour program that covers alcohol education and the impact of impaired driving.
You must use a program approved by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The school will report your completion directly to DHSMV.
A licensed substance abuse counselor will evaluate you and may recommend a treatment program. You must complete whatever program is recommended — DHSMV checks for this before approving reinstatement.
This is where we come in. You need to purchase an FR44 policy and have your insurance carrier file the FR44 certificate electronically with DHSMV. Key details:
DHSMV's system updates when we file. No paper forms, no mail — it's electronic.
Some DUI convictions require an ignition interlock device (IID) — a breathalyzer wired to your car's ignition. If required, you must have it installed by a state-approved provider before reinstatement. Common scenarios requiring IID:
If required, your owner FR44 policy must be compatible with the IID provider. We'll make sure it is.
If your court imposed community service hours as part of your DUI sentence, these must be completed before reinstatement. Get documentation from the community service provider.
Florida charges a reinstatement fee to restore your driving privileges:
You can pay at a DHSMV office or online through the Florida DHSMV website.
Once all requirements are met, visit a DHSMV service center or apply online. Bring:
DHSMV will verify all requirements and, if everything checks out, reinstate your driving privileges. This is when the 3-year FR44 clock officially starts.
Florida may grant a hardship license (also called a restricted license) that allows limited driving — typically to work, school, medical appointments, and church. Requirements vary by offense, but generally:
A hardship license gets you back on the road faster while you complete remaining requirements for full reinstatement.
While DUI school and substance abuse treatment take weeks to months, FR44 can be filed in 30 minutes. Getting it done now puts one major requirement behind you and sets up your path to reinstatement.
Get your FR44 quote or call (855) 678-6977 — we'll get you filed today.
One major step toward reinstatement — done in 30 minutes.