How to Restore a B2 Driver's License After Downgrade Due to Drunk Driving?
3 Answers
Drunk driving makes it impossible to restore a B2 driver's license. After a B2 license is temporarily suspended for six months and downgraded to C1, the following methods are required to restore the B2 license: 1. Scoring cycle: Apply for an upgrade after meeting the requirement of no 12-point record in the previous scoring cycle. Therefore, you need to wait until the current scoring cycle ends and then go through another scoring cycle before applying for an upgrade, which takes at least one year. 2. Cancel C1: Cancel the C1 license and directly apply for a B2 license. You can cancel the C1 license after the suspension period ends and then immediately apply for a B2 license. 3. Non-restorable situations: The following circumstances disqualify you from applying for a medium-sized or larger vehicle driver's license, no matter how much time has passed: causing a fatal traffic accident with equal or greater responsibility; driving under the influence of alcohol; having your driver's license revoked or rescinded within the past ten years.
I have a relative whose B2 driver's license was downgraded due to drunk driving. The restoration process took some time but wasn't too difficult. He waited a full year before applying because the regulation requires a 12-month driving suspension after a DUI. During that period, he couldn't drive and it was really tough for him. He reminded us daily not to follow his example of drunk driving. For the restoration, he first submitted an application at the DMV with his ID card and downgrade notice, then scheduled a theory test. He prepared by studying the question bank in advance and took a free alcohol safety course to raise his awareness. He passed the test on his first attempt, and later his license was restored to its original class. This whole experience taught him never to drink before driving, and I think it's a lesson worth learning—safe driving is the right way. Remember to handle it early; don't delay too long and affect your life.
I've been driving for over 20 years and have seen many similar cases. The core of B2 license restoration after downgrading due to drunk driving is safety reflection. You'll need to wait at least six months to a year depending on local regulations - no touching the steering wheel during this period. When applying for restoration, bring complete documentation: ID card, old license photo, etc., and retake the traffic rules exam (Subject 1). I emphasize continuous learning throughout this process - alcohol impairment is too dangerous, a single mistake can harm both others and yourself. After restoration, maintain steady mentality and develop zero-tolerance for drunk driving. Regularly review traffic rules, don't skip this exam to save fees. Safety always comes first - no urgency is worth risking lives.
