DMV Registration Penalties
Senate Bill 323, passed during the 2011 Legislative Session, replaces the former
$250 reinstatement fee for an insurance lapse with a tiered system of fees and fines.
Below is a matrix of the new penalties.
They are based on the length of the lapse of coverage and the number of previous lapses.
This goes into effect July 1, 2011.
| Length of Lapse: | 1-30 Days | 31-90 Days | 91-180 Days | 181 Days or More |
| 1st Offense | ||||
| Reinstatement Fee | $250 | $250 | $250 | $250 |
| Fine | $0 | $250 | $500 | $1,000 |
| SR-22 Insurance | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| TOTALS | $250 | $500 | $750 | $1,250 |
| 2nd Offense | ||||
| Reinstatement Fee | $500 | $500 | $500 | $500 |
| Fine | $0 | $500 | $500 | $1,000 |
| SR-22 Insurance | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| TOTALS | $500 | $1,000 | $1,000 | $1,500 |
| 3rd Offense | ||||
| Reinstatement Fee | $750 | $750 | $750 | $750 |
| Fine | $0 | $500 | $750 | $1,000 |
| SR-22 Insurance | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Driver License Suspension | Min. 30 Days | Min. 30 Days | Min. 30 Days | Min. 30 Days |
| TOTALS | $750 | $1,250 | $1,500 | $1,750 |
If the owner of the vehicle declares it dormant due to mechanical or seasonal circumstances during the period in question, the owner must sign a Dormant Vehicle Affidavit (NVL-003) and present documentation to verify the status. The reinstatement requirements will then include presenting current proof of insurance and a payment of $50.00.
If the owner of the vehicle experienced extenuating circumstances beyond their control, the owner may complete an affidavit and present original receipts and/or documentation to verify circumstance and time frames. Financial hardship does not qualify. Examples of extenuating circumstances are hospitalization, illness or a death in the family. You must apply at a DMV office or a County Assessor that offers vehicle registration services.
