How to Check if My California Driver’s License Is Suspended

July 24, 2025 | Nafiz M. Ahmed

It may not always be clear whether or not your driver’s license has been suspended in San Jose, CA. You must do the legwork to check if your driver’s license has been suspended. You have a few options for verifying the status of your driving record. A criminal defense attorney can simplify the process.

Your Options for Checking the Status of Your Driver’s License

To check your license status, you will need to request your driving record from the California DMV. There are generally three ways to request this information, and the time it takes will vary depending on the method you choose.

Your options for checking your license include:

Online

You can request your driver’s record by visiting the DMV website, creating an account, paying a fee, and submitting your information and driver’s license number. You will be able to receive your driver’s record within minutes.

In-Person

You can go to the DMV to request your driving record. This process takes longer, as you may have to wait for available personnel. It is best to make an appointment before visiting the DMV.

Filing an INF 1125 form

You can complete an INF 1125 form to request your driving record from the DMV headquarters. You will need to pay a fee, mail in your form, and wait to receive your record by mail. This method takes the longest.

When requesting your driving record, you can choose the option that is best suited to your needs and timeframe.

Know When to Check the Status of Your License

It is important to check the status of your driving record to ensure you do not drive with a suspended license. You should check on your license if you have received a ticket or been taken into custody. You should also check to see if your license has been reinstated following a completed license suspension.

Common Reasons for a Suspended Driver’s License

Driver’s licenses can be suspended in California for various reasons. The California DMV uses the Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) to assign points to an individual’s driving record should they cause a collision or engage in negligent driving practices. Certain crimes can also result in a driver’s license suspension.

Common scenarios where your license could be suspended or revoked include:

A DUI
Underage drinking
Refusing or failing a drug or alcohol test
Driving without insurance
Not reporting a collision
Too many driving record points
Failing to make child support payments
Vandalism

If you have been arrested or convicted of any of these crimes, verifying that your license has been suspended is essential. You should also consult a lawyer for guidance on how to proceed.

Driving With a Suspended License is a Punishable Offense

Driving with a suspended or revoked license is illegal in California and is a punishable offense. According to California Vehicle Code § 14601.1, a conviction could result in up to 6 months in county jail and/or fines between $300 and $1,000.

For convictions within 5 years of a previous offense, sentencing may include between 5 days and a year in county jail, and/or a fine between $500 and $2,000. A conviction can also prolong the suspension of your license.

Contact the San Jose Criminal Defense Attorneys at Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys for Help Today

California criminalizes driving without a license and driving with a suspended license. If you suspect your license has been suspended, it is important to err on the side of caution and avoid driving until you review your driving record.

Take action right away to see if your license has been suspended. You should also discuss your situation with a San Jose criminal defense lawyer to better understand your options. Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys is here to help. Call today for an initial consultation.

Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys – San Jose Office
1625 The Alameda, Suite 405, San Jose, CA 95126
(408) 217-8818

Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys – Redwood City Office
600 Allerton St Suite 201G, Redwood City, CA 94063
(650) 299-0500