Don't Get Stuck in Park: Understanding D6 Suspensions in Florida (2024)

A D6 suspension letter from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) can be a real downer. It means your driving privileges are on hold and navigating the path back to the open road can seem confusing. But fear not, fellow Floridians! This blog delves into the reasons behind D6 suspensions and equips you with the knowledge to get your license reinstated efficiently.

Decoding the D6: Reasons for Suspension

A D6 code in Florida signifies a driver’s license suspension due to unresolved traffic citations. These citations typically arise from two main scenarios:

• Failing to Pay:Life can get hectic, and sometimes a traffic ticket gets buried in a drawer. Unfortunately, Florida doesn’t share your forgetfulness. Missing the designated payment deadline for a traffic fine triggers a domino effect. The clerk of the court notifies the DHSMV, and your license goes into suspension.
• Skipping Court:Perhaps you received a court summons to address the traffic violation, but it slipped your mind. Attending your court date is crucial. If you miss it, the court can’t resolve the issue and, once again, the DHSMV receives notification, leading to a D6 suspension.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of potential reasons for a D6 suspension:

• Unpaid Traffic Tickets:This is the most common culprit. Speeding tickets, parking violations, red light infractions – any unpaid traffic citation can snowball into a D6 suspension if left unattended.
• Failure to Appear in Court:Skipping your court date for a traffic violation is a recipe for a D6 suspension. The court needs your presence to address the issue and determine appropriate penalties.
• Failure to Complete Court-Ordered Requirements:In some cases, the court might order you to attend driving safety school or complete community service as part of resolving a traffic violation. Failing to fulfill these requirements can also lead to a D6 suspension.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI):A DUI conviction carries hefty penalties, including a potential driver’s license suspension. The specific duration and reinstatement process for a DUI-related suspension may differ from a standard D6 suspension.

Important Note: This list is not exhaustive. It’s always best to consult the D6 letter or contact the clerk of the court for specific details regarding your suspension.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Reasons for Suspension

While the above reasons are the most common, there are a few less frequent situations that can trigger a D6 suspension:

• Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility:Florida law mandates drivers to maintain car insurance. If your insurance lapses and the DHSMV is notified, a D6 suspension might be issued.
• Medical Reasons:In rare cases, the DHSMV might suspend your license based on medical concerns that could affect your driving ability. You’ll likely receive a medical evaluation to determine eligibility for reinstatement.
• Outstanding Warrants:Unpaid tolls, parking tickets, or even child support can lead to warrants being issued. These warrants, in turn, can trigger a D6 suspension until the outstanding debts are settled.

Avoiding the D6 Dragnet: Preventive Measures

Knowledge is power, and here are some tips to steer clear of D6 suspensions:

• Set Up Payment Reminders:Life gets busy, but traffic tickets shouldn’t slip your mind. Utilize online reminders or calendar alerts to ensure timely payments.
• Respond to Court Summons:Don’t ignore court appearances. Attending your court date allows you to address the traffic violation and potentially negotiate a more favorable outcome.
• Maintain Insurance Coverage:Keep your car insurance active and provide proof of coverage to the DHSMV when necessary.
• Stay Informed:Check your driving record periodically for any outstanding citations or requirements. The DHSMV website offers online tools to access your record.

The Road to Reinstatement: What to Do Next

If you’ve received a D6 letter, don’t panic. Here’s a roadmap to get your driving privileges back on track:

1. Identify the Source:The D6 letter should specify the issuing court and the county. Note this information down for future reference.
2. Contact the Clerk of Court:Reach out to the clerk’s office in the county mentioned in the letter. They’ll provide details about your outstanding traffic citations, payment options, and any court-ordered requirements you need to fulfill.
3. Settle Your Debts:Pay all outstanding fines, fees, and court costs associated with the traffic violation(s).

Obtain a D6 Clearance Form:Once your obligations are settled, you’ll need a D6 clearance form from the clerk’s office.