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Emergency

License gone: what counts now (and when an MPU looms)

The license is gone, because of alcohol, drugs, too many points or a traffic offense? That hits hard, especially if you depend on the car for work. What matters now is knowing the deadlines and the path to re-issuance.

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Your chances of getting your money back

With a withdrawal, a ban period is usually set, before the end of which no new driving license is issued. For re-issuance, a medical-psychological examination (MPU) can be required, e.g. for high blood alcohol, drugs or point totals.
Against an official withdrawal you can have an objection/lawsuit reviewed; in criminal proceedings a lawyer's defense is important. Good MPU preparation (sometimes with abstinence proof) significantly increases the chances of success.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Clarify the reason and deadline

    Criminal court or licensing authority? How long is the ban period, and is an MPU required?

  2. 2

    2. Check legal remedies

    An objection/lawsuit (authority) or a defense (criminal proceedings) may be options against the withdrawal; watch the deadlines.

  3. 3

    3. Prepare for the MPU

    Gather abstinence and conduct proof early and use serious preparation (beware of dubious 'guarantee' offers).

  4. 4

    4. Apply for re-issuance

    After the ban period ends and (if necessary) a passed MPU, apply for re-issuance at the licensing authority.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my license back?

That depends on the set ban period and on whether an MPU is required. Before the ban period ends, no new driving license is issued. After that you must apply for re-issuance and, if ordered, present a passed MPU.

Can I avoid the MPU?

Usually not, if the licensing authority ordered it rightfully (e.g. for drugs, high blood alcohol or certain point totals). But you can have the lawfulness of the order reviewed and prepare well. Beware of dubious providers who promise a 'guaranteed' MPU.

Take action now

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.