Know your rights ·

My insurance lapsed or my registration was suspended

General information for New Jersey, New York and Washington, DC · Last updated

Quick answer

Resolve coverage and agency requirements before driving; license and registration consequences may be separate.

Do now

Obtain policy cancellation and reinstatement records, vehicle ownership details, and the agency notice. Ask the insurer to correct reporting errors where appropriate. Check what proof, plate handling, or restoration process the agency requires.

Watch for

Buying new insurance does not automatically erase an earlier lapse or restore suspended registration. Do not assume a vehicle is lawful to drive because the insurance card is current.

Official sources

NJDOBI — Auto Insurance Consumer Information, NJ MVC — Suspensions and Restorations, NY DMV — How to Keep Your License, DC DMV — Driver Improvement Services.

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