Out of State License Reinstatement Hearings FAQ

Can I Apply for Illinois License Reinstatement If I Live Out-of-State?

Yes — you absolutely can. Illinois allows out-of-state drivers to apply for reinstatement through either an in-person hearing, an online virtual hearing or a mail-in out-of-state reinstatement packet. The Secretary of State offers both options, and our Joliet-based legal team will help determine which method provides the best chance for success — based on your personal history and current location.

Do I Have to Travel to Illinois for a Hearing?

No, if you live out of state and can establish proof or residency, and you have served your revocation period, our office will handle your reinstatement / clearance online virtually. Meaning, you will not need to come to Illinois. For life time revocations, you must have served the 10 year revocation from your last conviction to be eligible for the hearing.

What Exactly Is an Out-of-State Hearing Packet?

The out-of-state packet—officially the Out-of-State Resident Reinstatement Application—is a comprehensive mail-in submission that serves as your “virtual hearing.” It must include all documentation you would otherwise present live, including evaluations, affidavits, and proof of residency. The Secretary of State holds out-of-state applicants to the same stringent standards as in-person hearings.

Do I Need to Go Through Illinois to Get a License in My New State?

Yes — even if you’ve relocated, an existing Illinois revocation typically prevents your new state from issuing a license. That’s because states communicate through national databases, and a hold from Illinois must be cleared before you can obtain valid driving privileges elsewhere.

Can I Reapply If I’ve Been Denied Before?

Absolutely — but it’s crucial to address the reasons for denial. Reviewing past hearing documents helps identify inconsistencies or missing evidence. Your new application must correct prior issues—our Joliet team specializes in strengthening repeat filings for better outcomes.

I Was Revoked for an Old DUI — Do I Still Need a Hearing?

Yes — regardless of when the offense occurred, you must still complete a hearing or out-of-state packet. Often, Illinois learns of old DUIs through the Problem Driver Pointer System (PDPS). If such a hold appears during renewal in your current state, it must be cleared via Illinois to move forward.

Can I Use My Local Evaluator or Treatment Provider?

Yes — Illinois generally accepts evaluations and treatment from licensed professionals in your current state. We can help confirm that your provider meets SOS standards, and smooth out any documentation issues before submission.

If I Completed Treatment Long Ago, Do I Need to Do It Again?

Not necessarily. If your DUI treatment was completed long ago, your Joliet attorney will help assess whether it still meets SOS requirements. Oftentimes, additional evaluation or continuity documentation—and not full re-treatment—is enough.

Should I Have a Lawyer Represent Me?

While not required, legal representation is strongly advised. The out-of-state process is complex and documentation-heavy. An experienced Joliet lawyer will guide you through every step, help avoid common pitfalls, and increase your odds of approval.

Can I Get a Hardship License in Illinois If I’m Not Eligible for Reinstatement Yet?

Generally, no — unless you’re a resident of Illinois. Exceptions are rare, such as holding a valid license in another state and needing to drive temporarily for urgent reasons in Illinois. Eligibility is limited and highly situational.

Why Won’t Illinois Remove My Revocation If My Home State Allows Me to Drive?

Illinois law mandates that revocations remain on record until cleared by the Secretary of State—even if another state does not object. Simply moving is not sufficient; you must complete the formal relief process.

If I Return to Illinois Within a Few Years, What’s Required Then?

If you’re granted reinstatement via packet and later return to Illinois within three years, you’re required to undergo an in-person hearing before being issued an Illinois license. For lifetime revocations, only an RDP may be permissible—subject to strict conditions and possible BAIID requirements.

Can I Ever Get Reinstated After a Lifetime Revocation While Living Out-of-State?

Yes — but only after a 10-year waiting period post-revocation. At that point, you must attend a formal hearing either in person or via remote video—out-of-state packets are not allowed for lifetime revocations.

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