If your Illinois driver’s license has been revoked due to a DUI or multiple traffic violations, one of the most important parts of the reinstatement process is submitting letters of support. These letters help show the Secretary of State that you’ve made changes and are now committed to being a safe, law-abiding driver.
But what exactly should these letters say? In this blog, we’ll explain what a letter of support is and what to include to improve your chances of success.
What Is a Letter of Support?
A letter of support is a character reference letter for reinstatement. It’s written by someone who knows you personally. The letter typically explains your background, character, and what changes you’ve made since your license was revoked. These letters play a key role in your license reinstatement because they help demonstrate rehabilitation and responsible behavior.
When done correctly, these letters provide additional insight into your progress. They help show the hearing officer at your Secretary of State hearing that others trust you.
Why Letters of Support Matter
At a Secretary of State hearing, hearing officers don’t only look at your treatment records and alcohol/drug evaluation. They want to know who you are now and what you do on a daily basis. Letters of support help paint a fuller picture by answering questions like:
- Do your friends and family believe you are responsible?
- Have you stayed sober?
- Are you being honest about your past actions and do you understand the magnitude of them?
- Do people trust you to drive safely?
- Do those close to you believe you’ve changed?
If the letters are vague, inconsistent, or don’t match what you’ve told the hearing officer, your petition may be denied. That’s why it’s important to take these letters seriously and provide clear guidance to the people writing them.
What To Include in a License Reinstatement Letter of Support
The best letter you can get in the driving privileges restoration process makes specific points. If someone is writing a letter on your behalf, make sure it includes the following information:
1. How They Know You
The writer should briefly explain their relationship to you (whether they’re a friend, family member, coworker, or sponsor). The letter should also include information on how long they’ve known you.
A good letter answers:
- How did they meet you?
- How often do they interact with you?
- Do they know about your driving history?
Example: “I have known John for over 12 years, both as a neighbor and close friend. We speak regularly, and I am familiar with his history of DUI arrests and the impact they had on his life.”
2. Awareness of Your Revocation
It’s important that the writer acknowledges that your license was revoked. Avoid letters that pretend the situation didn’t happen. Instead, they should clearly reference your past issues.
Example: “I am aware that Adam’s driver’s license was revoked following a DUI conviction in 2021.”
3. Personal Knowledge of Substance Use (If Applicable)
If your revocation was connected to alcohol or drug use, the letter should mention any first-hand knowledge the writer has concerning your past and current substance use. This includes things like what you used, how often, and for how long.
They should also talk about when they last knew of your substance use and any current or prior alcohol or drug-related treatment.
Example: “I’ve known Mark for over 15 years and was aware that he used to drink every day. The last time I saw him drink was in early 2023, before he started treatment. Since completing the program, he’s remained sober and attends weekly support group meetings.”
4. Statements About Your Sobriety (If Applicable)
If your revocation was related to alcohol or drugs, the letter should speak to your sobriety. Writers should include what they’ve observed, not just what you’ve told them.
Example: “Since his last DUI, Tom has been sober for over two years. I’ve attended AA meetings with him and seen firsthand how seriously he takes his recovery.”
5. Positive Behavior Since the Revocation
The letter should highlight changes you’ve made in your life. This could include going to counseling, participating in AA or NA, volunteering, or holding steady employment.
Example: “John now works full-time, attends weekly AA meetings, and frequently spends time with his family. He has completely changed his lifestyle since his last offense.”
6. Opinion On Your Ability to Drive Again
Perhaps the most important part, the writer should share whether they believe you’re ready to drive again and why. This should be based on personal experience and not just offered as a favor.
Example: “Based on the changes I’ve seen and the responsibility Sarah now demonstrates daily, I believe she is fully capable of safely operating a vehicle.”
Additional Tips for Strong Letters of Support
Here are a few extra things to keep in mind:
- Use clear and simple language: The letter doesn’t need to be formal, but it should be easy to read and to the point.
- Avoid exaggeration: Letters that sound overly dramatic or dishonest can raise red flags.
- Stick to facts: Writers should describe specific actions or behaviors they’ve personally witnessed.
- Keep it consistent: All letters should generally match what is said in your alcohol/drug evaluation and hearing testimony.
- Type the letter: Typed letters look more professional and are easier to read.
- Sign and date the letter: The letter should include the writer’s full name, address, phone number, and relationship to you.
Driver’s License Reinstatement Letter Example
While every situation is different, below is a license reinstatement sample letter to help support driver’s license restoration:
Sample Support Letter for License Reinstatement
“To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing this letter in support of [Your Full Name]’s petition to reinstate his Illinois driver’s license. I have known [Your Name] for over 10 years as a close friend and coworker.
I am aware that [Your Name] lost his license due to multiple DUIs, the last one being in 2022. Since then, I’ve seen a huge change in his behavior. He has been sober for nearly three years, attends weekly self-help group meetings, and takes responsibility for his actions. He was also hired at [Name of Company] and has been employed there since November 2022.
I truly believe he has made the necessary changes to drive responsibly again and fully support his efforts to get his license back.”
Sincerely,
[Full Name]
[Address]
[Phone Number]
[Signature]
Prepare for Your Hearing With Our Help
If you’re preparing for a Secretary of State hearing, don’t underestimate the value of support letters. They help tell your story, and a well-written letter can go a long way toward getting you back on the road. If you’re unsure where to start, working with a seasoned license reinstatement attorney can give you the guidance you need.
If you’re preparing for an Illinois Secretary of State administrative hearing in Chicago or nearby, we can help. Contact Johnson & Goldrich, P.C., to schedule a free consultation! We’ll make sure all your required documents— including your letters of support —are ready to stand up to scrutiny.