COLUMBUS, OH – More than 400,000 Ohioans have had their driver’s license suspensions lifted thanks to House Bill 29, a new state law signed by Governor Mike DeWine. Effective April 9, 2025, and fully implemented by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) on May 9, 2025, the legislation addresses debt-related penalties that have impacted over a million drivers, with 60% of suspensions unrelated to dangerous driving.
Key changes include the elimination of license suspensions for unpaid court fines or fees, with automatic reinstatement and no reinstatement fees for these cases. Exemptions apply to drug abuse offenses involving vehicle use, while individuals with child support-related suspensions can seek limited driving privileges. The law also ends license denials for truancy and reduces the lookback period for repeat insurance offenses from five to one year, while prohibiting courts from blocking vehicle registrations over unpaid fines.
The move aims to break the cycle of debt and unemployment, allowing more Ohioans to access jobs, education, and economic opportunities. Lawmakers and advocates, including the Ohio Poverty Law Center and the Fines and Fees Justice Center, hailed the bipartisan effort as a tipping point, making Ohio the 25th state to abandon debt-related driving penalties.
The BMV is notifying eligible drivers by mail, urging them to update contact information and check their driving records online or by phone. Those with child support suspensions can file for limited privileges, though other suspension-related fees may still apply. Advocates are collaborating with the BMV to streamline the restoration process.
Co-sponsored by Senators Lou Blessing and Catherine Ingram, and Representatives Darnell Brewer and Latyna Humphrey, the bill received broad support from legal aid groups, businesses, and community leaders. “This is a monumental step for Ohio workers and families,” said Lauren Krisai of Justice Action Network, noting its economic and social benefits.
For more details, including district-specific suspension data, visit the provided BMV resources.
