A person whose driver’s license has been suspended or revoked following an arrest for DUI/DWI generally may apply to have their license reinstated at the end of the suspension or revocation period by paying a reissue or reinstatement fee and providing proof of financial responsibility (insurance)—but only after completing any court-ordered sentence, including (1) jail or prison time, (2) work furlough or work release, (3) probation, (4) DUI traffic school, alcohol rehabilitation, treatment, or intervention programs, and (5) payment of fines and court costs.

A driver’s license that has been suspended or revoked is not automatically reinstated when the suspension or revocation period ends, and the driver must complete the reinstatement process to drive legally.

Laws regarding the reinstatement of a driver's license after suspension or revocation for a DUI/DWI arrest vary from state to state and are generally located in a state's statutes—often in the vehicle code, transportation code, or vehicle and traffic code.

In North Carolina, a person whose driver's license has been suspended or revoked due to a DUI/DWI arrest must wait until the end of the suspension or revocation period before applying for reinstatement. To legally drive again, the individual must complete the reinstatement process, which includes paying a reinstatement fee and providing proof of financial responsibility, typically in the form of auto insurance. Additionally, the individual must fulfill all court-ordered obligations, which may include serving any jail or prison time, participating in work release programs, completing probation, attending DUI traffic school or alcohol treatment programs, and paying all associated fines and court costs. It is important to note that the driver's license will not be automatically reinstated after the suspension or revocation period; the driver must actively complete the necessary steps to regain their driving privileges. The specific requirements and procedures for reinstating a driver's license in North Carolina can be found in the state's statutes, particularly those related to motor vehicles and traffic regulations.