Being banned from driving is in some cases a permanent ban, but in most cases, depending on the severity of the offence a disqualification can range from a one year duration to ten years off the road.
There is also a penalty called a Short Period Disqualification (SPD ) and this is where someone is banned from driving for less than 56 days, and their license is held by the court for this period, but not surrendered. This duration of ban is given as a penalty for the less severe offences, and you can begin driving again once it has expired without having to repeat your test.
In the cases of full licence disqualifications you can reapply for your licence after the period has expired. This must be done by filling in the correct forms available online or at a post office. You will be first provided with a provisional driving licence with which you can apply to re-take the theory, hazard perception and practical test.
The endorsements of a disqualification will remain on a licence unless otherwise instructed by a magistrate for which you will need to appear and present your case for removal.
A court may allow a driver to only serve half their disqualification if they have undertaken drink driving rehabilitation courses or other steps to ensure safer driving once qualified. The court may also consider the effect of the ban on an individual’s family life or career.
If a ban more than 2 years has been given, then often you can apply to reinstate your licence after half the disqualification has elapsed. However if you have been found guilty of other offences, whether motoring or of a different nature, during your disqualification period then your application will be instantly dismissed.
If you have committed a drink driving offence you will need to get help and advice from a specialist driving offence lawyer.
