FAQs for Illinois Residents

Questions and Answers on Illinois Drivers License Reinstatement

Is it true that you always get denied at your first hearing?

NO! People usually get denied at the first hearing because they go into that hearing unprepared and without appropriate representation. If you have an attorney who concentrates in this area of law and properly prepares you for the hearing you will most likely get approved for driving relief whether it is your first hearing or not. 

Isn't it a waste of money to hire an attorney for a hearing?

It depends on how important getting your Illinois Drivers License back is to you. Having an experienced attorney who concentrates in this area of law gives you a much better chance of success than trying to do this on your own or with an attorney without the proper amount of experience. 

Isn't it better for you to wait until you're eligible for full reinstatement and then go to a hearing?

NO! Even if you go to your first hearing after your projected eligibility date you will most likely still be required to have a restricted driving permit.

If your Illinois Drivers License is revoked do you have to wait until your eligibility date before you can have a hearing?

NO! In almost all circumstances you can go to a hearing prior to your projected eligibility date unless you live out of state.

Is it true that you must go to a Formal Hearing if you have more than one DUI?

NO! There are things that go into determining if a person needs an Informal Hearing or a Formal Hearing, not just the number of DUIs. 

Will I have to have a BAIID device in my car?

That depends on your specific history. The best way to determine that is to ask an attorney who concentrates in this area to review your history. 

Are all Secretary of State hearing officers there to deny as many people as they can?

NO! Their job is to approve people and get them driving again. More importantly their job also includes making sure they are letting the right people drive again. When you go to this hearing it is you and your attorney’s job to prove to the Secretary of State that you are no longer a danger to the public safety.