Suspension can be lifted or reduced

By Kaye Collins

Qualified drivers may apply for reduced or lifted suspensions from Monday, March 9, until Friday, March 13, although fees will be incurred. Cases involving alcohol and drugs are not eligible for this program.

The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) has announced that it will conduct Driver Suspension Eligibility Week throughout the state letting certain drivers in South Carolina who have suspended licenses qualify to have their penalties removed.

Officials stated that this event will provide an opportunity for drivers who have lost their driving privileges “due to specific suspensions” to potentially reduce or eliminate their suspensions.

This specifically pertains to drivers who are under a suspension that does not involve an alcohol or drug-related conviction. It also applies to young drivers who have accumulated excessive points on their records.

Individuals operating an uninsured vehicle that is not their own, as well as those driving an unlicensed taxi, are also eligible to apply. The SCDMV is sending out notifications to qualifying customers according to its records and recipients should take these letters to a branch office during the designated eligibility week.

However, anyone who believes they’re eligible and hasn’t received a letter should visit www.dmv.sc.gov to verify that their mailing address is correctly listed there.

Drivers are required to meet all conditions of their suspensions and visit a branch office within the eligibility week to complete Form DL-601A and settle all fees. The agency has stated that no fees or fines will be waived during this time and that drivers might need to have their insurance provider submit a certificate of insurance (SR-22).

They mentioned that drivers with multiple suspensions will have their suspension periods reassessed. Additionally, other drivers might be required to complete knowledge and road tests prior to obtaining a new license. Officials stated that only those drivers who meet all suspension criteria will be eligible to apply for reinstatement. Drivers not included in the program will keep serving their suspensions.

Any questions about eligibility contact the agency at  www.WebHelpDesk@dmv.sc.gov.