Get Your Driving Licence Back: Top Tips to Get Back on the Road After a Driving Ban

It can be frustrating losing your driving licence due to a mistake or momentary lapse in judgement. You may struggle to adapt to life without the freedom to drive. However, depending on the circumstances, you may have grounds to appeal for an early end to your ban.

In the following guide, our specialist motoring law solicitors walk you through the process of reclaiming your licence, from understanding the disqualification process to adapting to life after a ban, and provide you with the top tips to get back on the road after a driving ban.

Understanding the Disqualification Process

Driving bans can be issued for a variety of reasons, and the duration of the ban depends on the severity of the offence. Understanding the disqualification process is the first step towards getting your licence back.

Types of Disqualifications

There are two main types of driving disqualifications that can be imposed: the totting-up process and instant bans.

• The totting-up process accumulates penalty points on your driving licence, eventually leading to a six-month driving ban.
• Instant bans are imposed immediately for severe offences, and penalty points are not erased from the driving licence upon receiving this type of ban.

Either way, it is crucial to be aware of the consequences of your actions on the road and avoid accumulating penalty points or committing severe offences.

Duration of Bans

The duration of driving bans in the UK varies depending on the severity of the offence and other factors, such as the type of offence, the number of offences, and the driver's history. Generally, driving bans last between seven and 56 days, but can be extended up to 10 years for more serious offences.

There are some exceptions to the duration of driving bans; for instance, a driver who successfully completed a driver improvement course may be eligible for a reduced ban.

Common Reasons for Driving Bans

Some common reasons for driving bans include driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driving without insurance, driving while disqualified, speeding, and disregarding traffic signals. Drink or drug driving is another criminal offence that can lead to a driving ban, while driving without insurance is also a violation of the law and can result in a driving ban.

Reapplying for Your Licence

Once your disqualification period is over, it will be time to reapply for your driving licence. This process involves submitting the necessary documents and, in some cases, undergoing medical assessments.

Necessary Documents

To reapply for a driving licence following a ban, you will need to complete a D1 form, provide a new passport-style photograph, and pay the applicable fee. Additionally, those who drive cars, motorcycles, lorries or buses must submit forms D1 and D2.

Both forms can be found here.

It is essential to ensure you have all the required documents in order to avoid delays in the application process.

Application Timeline

The time it takes to receive your new licence depends on the method of application and the country. Online applications can take as little as a few days to process, while paper applications may take up to four weeks or longer. Medical assessments may also take additional time. Once the application has been received, you can expect to receive your driving licence within three weeks.

Medical Assessments

In some cases, a medical assessment may be necessary for reapplying for your licence, particularly if you were disqualified as a result of a drink driving conviction. The medical assessment serves as a legal requirement to evaluate your medical condition and ensure that you are medically fit to drive without posing a risk to other drivers on the road.

During the assessment, a medical professional will analyse your medical background and any indications of alcohol abuse or addiction in the past 12 months.

Early Removal of Disqualification

In some cases, it is possible to apply for early removal of driving disqualification. However, you will need to meet certain criteria and provide evidence to support your case.

Can a driving ban be reversed?

In some cases, a driving ban can be reversed if you appeal the decision through the legal process. However, the outcome of the appeal will vary depending on the circumstances.

In cases where a ban removal cannot be completely removed, you may instead be able to apply for a reduction. The duration of a reduction to your ban will also depend on how long the ban is. Typically, driving ban reductions are offered at half of the initial length of the band. For example, if your ban is set to last four years, you may be able to get a two-year reduction.

How can I get my driving licence back early after a ban?

If you have been banned from driving for more than two years, you can take steps to reduce the period of your disqualification and potentially regain your driving licence earlier. However, this is not an automatic right, and you need to demonstrate that you can be a safe and responsible driver before the court will consider your request and satisfy several legal requirements. 

You will also need to re-apply for your driving licence which, with the help of our motoring law team, you can do here. This process includes completing the form and paying the application fee to the DVLA. You may also need to send an updated identification photo.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for early removal of disqualification, you must serve the minimum term of the ban and demonstrate a genuine need for your licence to be reinstated. The exact criteria may vary depending on the applicable jurisdiction, so it's essential to understand the requirements in your area.

Seeking the assistance of a knowledgeable driving offence solicitor is crucial for a successful application, as they can help you navigate the complex legal landscape and advocate for your case.

The application process

To apply for early removal of disqualification, you must submit an application to the Magistrates' or Crown Court, whichever imposed the driving disqualification. The court will assess your application, taking into account your behaviour since the disqualification, the type of offence committed, and any other relevant mitigating factors.

If your application is declined, you can resubmit it no sooner than three months after the previous application, but your previous denial may influence the court's decision in any future attempts.

Legal assistance

Seeking legal assistance for early removal of disqualification can be invaluable in helping you navigate the application process and present a strong case. A specialist driving offence solicitor - such as those at JMW Solicitors - can offer guidance on the best course of action, as well as provide legal representation in court if required.

Your solicitors can ensure that all documentation is completed accurately and that you are aware of your rights.

Insurance Considerations

After facing a driving ban, it is essential to notify your insurers and shop around for new car insurance policies. In this section, we will discuss the importance of informing your insurance company of your driving ban and the process of finding new insurance policies that cater to convicted drivers.

Notifying your insurance company of your driving ban is important as it will help them assess the risk of insuring you and determine the cost of your policy. It is also important to shop around.

Notifying Insurers

It is crucial to inform your insurance company of any driving ban until the conviction is spent. Failing to do so could render your insurance null and void. To notify your insurer, contact them directly and provide the pertinent information regarding your driving ban.

Convicted Driver Car Insurance

Insurance is typically more expensive due to the increased risk associated with convicted drivers. Some insurance companies do not offer policies to drivers with convictions, while others may provide specialised policies for convicted drivers. The cost of convicted driver car insurance varies depending on the type of conviction and the insurer, but is generally more expensive than standard car insurance.

Shopping for New Insurance

When searching for new insurance policies after a driving ban, it is important to gather information, assess your coverage requirements, compare companies and policies, and select the policy that best meets your needs.

Consider researching different insurance companies and comparing their policies and rates, as well as any discounts you may qualify for. Once you have found a suitable policy, you can purchase it online or via telephone.

Other considerations

Along with organising your insurance, you will also need to make sure your vehicle has undergone an MOT and that you have applied for road tax. Having a driving conviction can impact your ability to organise these obligations, so you must be prepared to deal with the expenses or eligibility difficulties that come with this.

Adapting to Life After a Ban

Life after a driving ban can be challenging, but there are steps you can take to ensure a smoother transition. Reflecting on your driving behaviour, seeking professional help, and staying informed on good driving practices are all important steps to take after a driving ban.

It is important to follow all the legal requirements set by the court. Take all necessary steps towards getting your licence back, including taking a driving test if one has been mandated.

Complying with any restrictions put on your driving licence will ensure that you can drive again as soon as possible.

Reflecting on Driving Behaviour

Taking the time to reflect on your driving behaviour can help you recognise areas for improvement and heighten your understanding of your actions on the road. By being mindful of your driving habits and being aware of potential risks, you can cultivate critical thinking abilities and improve your future driving performance.

One way to do this is by taking a refresher course to remind yourself of any important laws and good practices that you may have forgotten due to your time banned from driving.

Reflecting on your driving behaviour can also help you avoid making the same mistakes again and ensure a safer driving experience in the future.

It is important to note that being unaware of a new driving law is not an excuse for committing a driving offence - the court will not accept this explanation. By staying informed, you can take an active role in your driving future and ensure a smooth transition back into life on the road.

Seeking Legal Advice

Obtaining professional help from a specialist driving offence solicitor - such as those at JMW Solicitors - can be beneficial in addressing any driving-related issues that may arise after a ban. If you are struggling with certain aspects of your life due to your driving ban, a solicitor can provide guidance on the best course of action, legal representation in court if needed, and ensure that all documentation is completed accurately when pursuing a resolution.