Florida DUI FR44 Checklist: Complete License Reinstatement Guide (2026)

Use this checklist after a Florida DUI conviction to track every step toward license reinstatement. Complete all steps in order — skipping any one step means DHSMV will not reinstate your license.

• Request a formal review hearing within 10 days — DHSMV automatically suspends your license upon arrest. You have 10 days to request a formal review to challenge the administrative suspension. Missing this window means automatic suspension begins at day 10.
• Hire a DUI attorney — Not optional for best outcomes. Florida DUI law is complex. An attorney can negotiate BAL evidence, challenge stop validity, or arrange diversion programs.
• Request a hardship license if eligible — First offense? You may qualify for a business-purpose-only hardship license during the suspension period. Ask your attorney or contact DHSMV.

• Get your court disposition document — You'll need the official document showing the conviction, sentence, and any special conditions. Clerk of court provides this.
• Enroll in DUI school — Must be DHSMV-approved. Level I (12 hours, ~$270) for first offense. Level II (21 hours + evaluation) for second offense or BAC 0.15+. Find providers at flhsmv.gov.
• Complete DUI school — Completion certificate is required for reinstatement. Schools transmit completion electronically to DHSMV in most cases.
• Complete substance abuse evaluation (if ordered) — Level II school triggers this. Evaluation may result in treatment recommendation. Treatment must be completed before reinstatement.
• Complete any court-ordered community service — Hours must be documented and reported to the court before probation can be closed.

• Get FR44 insurance quote — Call or apply online. Get multiple quotes. FR44 requires $100K/$300K bodily injury + $50K property damage. Non-owner policies available if you don't own a vehicle.
• Purchase FR44 policy and confirm DHSMV filing — Your insurer files the FR44 electronically with DHSMV. Confirm the filing was received (call DHSMV or check online status).
• Set up auto-pay for FR44 premium — A single missed payment triggers automatic notification to DHSMV and license re-suspension. Auto-pay is not optional.

• Determine if IID is required — Required for: first offense BAC 0.15+, minor in vehicle, second offense, third offense. Check your court order.
• Choose a DHSMV-approved IID provider — Intoxalock, Smart Start, LifeSafer are common. Compare monthly monitoring fees ($60–$90/month).
• Schedule and complete IID installation — Typically 1–3 business days lead time. Get the installation certificate — DHSMV requires this documentation.
• Register IID with DHSMV — Some providers do this automatically. Confirm with your provider and verify at DHSMV.

• Pay reinstatement fee to DHSMV — $150–$500 depending on offense and suspension type. Check current fee at flhsmv.gov or call (850) 617-2000.
• Pay any outstanding fines — Court fines, costs, and assessments must be paid. Confirm with clerk of court that your balance is zero.
• Confirm all requirements are complete — DHSMV reinstatement requires: DUI school ✓, FR44 on file ✓, IID installed if required ✓, fees paid ✓, treatment completed if required ✓.
• Apply for reinstatement at DHSMV — Visit a DHSMV office or use the online portal at flhsmv.gov. Bring all documentation.
• Receive reinstated license — Allow 24–48 hours for DHSMV processing after all requirements are confirmed.

• Maintain FR44 coverage continuously — No gaps. No lapses. Any lapse = automatic suspension + potential restart of the 3-year clock.
• Comply with IID requirements for full required period — Do not tamper with the device. Do not attempt to start a vehicle with a blood alcohol reading above 0.025%. Report any device issues to your provider immediately.
• Complete probation requirements — Typical first offense: 12 months probation. Report to probation officer as required. Complete all conditions.
• Month 36: Confirm FR44 period ended — Call DHSMV or check your record. Contact your insurer to remove the FR44 filing (this may reduce your premium). Shop your policy — rates often improve significantly once FR44 is removed.

Key Timelines at a Glance