Often, service members encounter unique challenges that other civilians do not face, especially when it comes to maintaining auto insurance during lengthy deployments. If you've been deployed for an extended period and have taken out all your insurance on your car, you are now faced with a difficult situation. Simultaneously, your license may be suspended due to non-payment of auto insurance. This article provides guidance on what steps to take to address these issues and navigate the system effectively.

Reasserting Control Over Your License and Insurance Status

First and foremost, it's crucial to address the fact that you have a suspended license. This can lead to additional penalties and complications while you work towards reinstating it. However, it's important to be honest and provide evidence and documentation to support your claims.

Additionally, you need to consider the grounds that led to the suspension of your license. If it was due to non-payment of auto insurance, it's important to take the necessary steps to pay any fines and reinstate your license. Each state has different requirements, so it is advisable to contact your local DMV for guidance on the reinstatement process. For instance, the state of Georgia charges a reinstatement fee of $200.00 for dropping car insurance, but this amount can vary from state to state.

Exploring Car Insurance Options During Deployment

To avoid falling into this predicament, consider purchasing volatile storage insurance or military storage insurance for your vehicle when you know you will be away for an extended period. Companies like USAA offer options for service members to maintain coverage on their vehicles even when they are not driving them. This can prevent the need for you to pay insurance premiums and reduce the risk of your license being suspended.

Proving Your Deployment and Car Storage Status

Once you have your insurance sorted out, you can present proof to the DMV about your deployment and the storage of your car. Gather all documentation, including unit orders, and have it notarized to ensure its validity. This is crucial because the DMV requires evidence of your circumstances. If you are in a state with a significant military population, the DMV is more likely to be familiar with and supportive of these processes.

Effective communication and a courteous approach can significantly aid in navigating these issues. Be prepared to listen to the advice given by the DMV representatives and take detailed notes. Some may even provide guides and flowcharts that could help streamline the process. Remember, the rules and regulations are created to be fair for everyone, so approaching the matter with humility can go a long way.

Serving and Success

Thank you for your service. Your support of the military community is invaluable. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully navigate the challenges of maintaining your auto insurance and driver's license during deployment.