Dupage County Driver’s License Reinstatement Attorney

Wirth Law is a trusted Illinois law firm with offices in downtown Naperville and the Chicago Loop. For over twenty years, the firm has focused exclusively on Illinois driver’s license reinstatement and DUI defense. With a strong record of success and personalized client service, Wirth Law helps individuals throughout Dupage County restore driving privileges through the Illinois Secretary of State hearing process.

Our Naperville office provides convenient access for clients living in Dupage County, including those in Lisle, Downers Grove, Oak Brook, and the surrounding western suburbs. Our Chicago Loop location is located within walking distance of the Illinois Secretary of State’s hearing facility, allowing efficient access to hearings in downtown Chicago.

With an annual success rate of over 95 percent for first-time hearings handled by our office, Wirth Law remains a proven choice for those dealing with an Illinois driver’s license revocation.

Experienced and Award-Winning Representation

Attorney Jennifer Wirth, founder and managing attorney of Wirth Law, is recognized for her  top-notch work in DUI defense and license reinstatement. She has consistently earned a perfect rating of 10 on Avvo and Justia, two independent attorney rating services.

In 2024, she was listed among the Best DUI Lawyers in Chicago by Expertise. She was also recognized as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Illinois for DUI defense in 2018. Her consistent dedication to client service is reflected in repeat awards from Martindale-Hubbell and Avvo, including the Client Champion Award and the Client’s Choice distinction.

With over two decades of experience, Jennifer Wirth continues to provide experienced and compassionate representation to clients facing driver’s license suspension and revocation throughout Illinois.

Legal Representation Across Dupage County and Beyond

Wirth Law represents individuals in Naperville and all regions of Dupage County. Our services extend to those residing in Aurora, Glen Ellyn, Wheaton, Westmont, and other local communities. Our office also assists out-of-state drivers whose applications for a license are denied due to an Illinois revocation or hold.

No matter where a person lives, our firm works diligently to review the record, explain eligibility, and prepare a hearing strategy tailored to the case. For revoked drivers, we provide end-to-end support through the formal or informal hearing process.

Understanding Driver’s License Revocations and Suspensions

Before seeking reinstatement or a permit, it is important to distinguish between a driver’s license suspension and a revocation.

A suspension is a temporary loss of driving privileges for a specific period. A suspension will end on its expiration date as long as all reinstatement fees are paid and no additional violations have occurred. Common reasons for a license suspension include excessive moving violations or being found in possession of a fraudulent identification card.

In contrast, a revocation is indefinite. A revoked license will remain in effect until a successful hearing is completed, and relief is granted. The Secretary of State provides a reinstatement eligibility date, which simply means the person is permitted to request reinstatement at that time. A successful hearing must still be held for a person to be able to legally drive again.

Common Reasons for Suspension and Revocation in Illinois

One of the most frequent causes of driver’s license revocation in Illinois is a DUI conviction. A revocation may result from a DUI that occurs in Illinois or another state while the driver holds an Illinois license. With few exceptions, a guilty plea to a DUI in another state leads to Illinois driver’s license revocation once the Secretary of State is notified.

The clerk of court is required to notify the Secretary of State following certain findings of guilt. Once a notification of a DUI conviction is received, the Secretary will revoke driving privileges. Other offenses that commonly result in revocation or suspension include:

• Reckless homicide
• Felony involving a motor vehicle
• Aggravated fleeing or eluding law enforcement
• Possession or use of a fraudulent driver’s license or ID
• Three or more moving violations within a twelve-month period

Forms of Driving Relief Offered Through a Secretary of State Hearing

The Illinois Secretary of State may grant different types of relief, depending on the circumstances of the case and eligibility. These include:

Full Reinstatement for Illinois Residents

Full reinstatement restores all driving privileges without restrictions. No interlock device is required, and the driver is permitted to operate a vehicle for any legal purpose. After reinstatement is approved, the driver must pay all reinstatement fees before a license may be reissued.

Clearance for Out-of-State Residents

An out-of-state resident with an Illinois revocation may seek reinstatement for the purpose of lifting the Illinois hold. This allows the individual to apply for a license in their current state of residence. Many refer to this process as “out-of-state clearance,” even though Illinois considers it a form of reinstatement. Once relief is granted, the driver must pay reinstatement fees and provide an SR-22 Waiver. If the driver later returns to Illinois, a permit may be required before full privileges can be restored.

Hardship Permits

Hardship permits allow driving for limited and essential purposes, including employment, school, medical treatment, support group meetings, and daycare services. The driver must demonstrate that alternative transportation is unavailable and that issuing a permit would not pose a threat to public safety.

Probationary Permits

A probationary permit allows a revoked driver to operate a vehicle for any legal reason, twelve hours per day, six days per week, within a 200-mile radius of the person’s residence. Many probationary permits require use of an ignition interlock device if the revocation resulted from a DUI.

BAIID Multiple Offender Permits

Illinois residents with two or more DUI convictions are subject to a mandatory five-year interlock permit period before reinstatement will be considered. The 1,826-day BMO permit must be continuously maintained and renewed every two years through the hearing process. This probationary permit allows for broad driving privileges, as opposed to narrowly tailored permits for work or school.

Secretary of State Hearings: Formal and Informal

The type of hearing required depends on the reason for the suspension or revocation.

Formal Hearings

Formal hearings are required for DUI revocations and other serious matters, such as reckless homicide. These hearings resemble a trial and involve a hearing officer, an attorney for the Secretary of State, and the petitioner with legal counsel. Testimony is taken under oath and the proceedings are recorded. A written decision is mailed within ninety days of the hearing date.

Informal Hearings

Informal hearings are used for matters such as multiple moving violations, fleeing and eluding, or possession of a fraudulent ID. These hearings are conducted on a walk-in basis at designated Secretary of State locations. The hearing officer records responses during the interview, and a written decision is sent after review.

Client-Focused Representation

At Wirth Law, client service remains a top priority. Attorney Jennifer Wirth approaches every case with professionalism, transparency, and individualized attention. All clients are treated with respect, and their goals are addressed through clear communication and detailed hearing preparation. The firm works with clients to gather necessary documents, review testimony, and anticipate the questions that will be asked at a hearing.

Free Consultations and Flat-Rate Pricing

Wirth Law offers free consultations for all Illinois driver’s license reinstatement cases. Our firm provides transparent, flat-rate pricing and offers payment plans through Affirm for those who qualify. With locations in both downtown Naperville and downtown Chicago, Wirth Law serves clients throughout Dupage County and across the State of Illinois.

To schedule a free consultation, call Wirth Law at (312) 761-8290 or email jennifer@wirthlaw.org.