Vehicle registration suspension can cause significant inconvenience, and understanding the steps to reinstate it is crucial for Pennsylvania drivers.
Suspensions generally occur when the state Department of Transportation (PennDOT) identifies lapses in mandatory car insurance coverage or issues related to compliance, unpaid fees, or other violations.
Restoring a suspended vehicle registration in Pennsylvania requires diligence and prompt action.
Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the restoration process.
Common Reasons for Vehicle Registration Suspension
- Lapsed Insurance Coverage:
The most common cause is the failure to maintain active insurance. Even a brief lapse, such as switching insurance companies, can trigger a suspension. - Failure to Notify PennDOT of Insurance Changes:
If you switch or cancel your policy without updating PennDOT, this oversight may result in suspension. - Unpaid Traffic Violations or Tolls:
Unpaid fines, parking tickets (e.g., Philadelphia Parking Authority violations), or tolls owed to the PA Turnpike Commission exceeding $250 can lead to indefinite suspension until resolved. - Accidents with Uninsured Drivers:
If involved in an accident where the other party is uninsured and you are found at fault, PennDOT may suspend your registration. - Vehicle Non-Operation:
If your vehicle is uninsured but not driven, you must submit Form MV-221 (Statement of Non-Operation of Vehicle). Failure to do so could result in penalties or a three-month suspension. - Administrative Issues:
- Selling, junking, or repossession of a vehicle without proper documentation to PennDOT can cause complications.
- Failing to renew your registration or pay associated fees on time can also result in suspension.
Steps to Restore Your Suspended Registration
Option 1: Pay a $500 Civil Penalty
This allows you to bypass the three-month suspension once per year. Additionally, you must provide proof of insurance and pay a restoration fee, which varies but is typically $120.
Option 2: Serve a Three-Month Suspension
If you choose not to pay the civil penalty, you must surrender your license plate and registration card to PennDOT for the suspension period. After three months, pay the restoration fee ($120) and submit proof of insurance to reinstate the registration.
Restoration Process
CNS Licensing can help you with your restoration process. You can reach out to our specialists at 717.627.4334 or come to one of our locations:
- 151 Koser Road, Lititz, PA 17543
- 58 Copperfield Cir, Lititz, PA 17543
If plates and cards were surrendered: Expect new registration within 7–10 business days if your registration hasn’t expired.
If plates were not surrendered: You can renew registration at CNS Licensing.
Preventing Future Suspensions
- Maintain Continuous Insurance: Always ensure your vehicle is insured, especially when switching providers.
- Communicate with PennDOT: Notify PennDOT immediately if your vehicle status changes (e.g., sold, junked, or repossessed).
- Pay Fees and Violations Promptly: Keep up with registration renewals, toll payments, and traffic fines to avoid unnecessary penalties.
- Understand Your Obligations: Familiarize yourself with Pennsylvania’s vehicle registration requirements to remain compliant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I avoid suspension if I don’t drive the vehicle?
A: Yes, submit Form MV-221 to declare the vehicle non-operational during periods of insurance lapse.
Q: What happens if I ignore a suspension notice?
A: Ignoring the notice can lead to indefinite suspension, additional fines, and legal complications.
Q: How do I address toll or parking ticket-related suspensions?
A: Pay the outstanding amount directly to the issuing authority (e.g., PA Turnpike Commission or Philadelphia Parking Authority). Once compliance is confirmed, submit restoration fees and proof to PennDOT.
CNS Licensing is here to help!
Reach out to CNS Licensing where we have been handling our clients’ licensing and permitting needs for over 30 years.
We also carry many types of plates for:
- Passenger Cars
- Trucks
- Motorcycles and Mopeds
- Trailers and Permanent Trailers
- Bus
- School Bus
- Intransit
- Omni Bus
- SME
- IMP
If you have any questions, call (717)627.4334 or email at info@cnslicensing.com.
