If you’ve had your Ohio driver’s license suspended due to a DUI conviction, getting into an accident without insurance, or other serious error, it can be a somewhat confusing process getting your license back. The court order will include all the things you have to do, which undoubtedly includes getting an Ohio SR22 certificate. However, without guidance, sometimes the steps to follow -and in which order- aren’t entirely clear.
Every situation is different, so there’s no way to write a “one size fits all” guide to legal compliance in these situations. However, we can offer some general guidelines and things you need to understand about SR22 compliance in Ohio.
Three Things You Should Know About Ohio SR22 Certificates
1. Having an SR22, by itself, does not necessarily mean you can drive.
Getting an SR22 will only be one part of the process. In fact, sometimes people can be required to get an SR22 when they don’t even own a car. Nor is an SR22 a replacement for an insurance policy. You must have state-recognized insurance to be able to get an SR22.
Having your license restored is rarely, if ever, as simple as just getting an SR22.
2. There are many potential steps you will have to take
Depending on your situation, your court order could include a multitude of steps needed to get your license back, including:
- Reinstatement fees
- Substance Awareness Traffic Offender Program (SATOP) participation
- Paying child support
- Installing interlock ignition devices (in-car breathalyzers)
- Paying court-ordered payments and/or adhering to installment payments
- Obtaining explicit court permission
The only real solution here is to read your court order carefully, or potentially have someone with legal knowledge talk you through it.
3. The situation doesn’t end once your license is reinstated
Getting your license back is only the midpoint of this particular journey. Most of the time, you will have ongoing requirements as part of the initial judgment(s) against you. For example, you will undoubtedly be required to carry insurance, plus of course, any ordered payments would need to be kept up.
Failure to adhere to any aspect of your court orders can result in your license being revoked, possibly automatically. You must fully complete all orders from the court before you can truly put the situation behind you.
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