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Video: Massachusetts RMV License Suspension – Drugs or Alcohol? What to Do About an Immediate Threat Notice
June 03, 2025
Transcript
License Suspended Due to Immediate Threat?
Did you receive a notice in the mail from the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) saying your license is suspended due to an immediate threat related to drugs, alcohol, or a medical issue?
I’m Attorney Tracy Paulsen with Rightful Legal, and I’m going to walk you through exactly what this means and what steps you can take to fight for your license and get it back.
What Is an Immediate Threat Suspension in Massachusetts?
An immediate threat suspension means the RMV believes that your driving poses an immediate and serious safety risk to the public. This is often based on concerns related to:
- Alcohol or drug use while driving.
- A suspected medical event that impairs your ability to operate a vehicle safely.
This is a civil administrative suspension, not a criminal charge—although it can be issued alongside a criminal charge.
The police do not have to prove guilt in court. They only need to submit a written report to the RMV explaining why they believe your continued driving is a public safety risk.
If you’ve received a notice like this, it likely says that your license is suspended immediately and indefinitely.
What Happens After an Immediate Threat Suspension?
If your license has been suspended, the RMV expects you to show that you have taken proactive steps to address the concern that triggered the suspension.
This typically includes:
- Medical Evaluation: A formal assessment by a qualified medical professional with submission of a Medical Evaluation Form to the RMV.
- Substance Abuse Evaluation (if applicable): If the suspension is related to drugs or alcohol, you will likely need an evaluation by a substance abuse counselor, along with a formal letter prepared for the RMV or the Board of Appeals.
- Proof of Sobriety: This may involve drug or alcohol testing, such as hair follicle tests or urine screens, to show that you are not actively using substances.
What Steps Help Get Your License Back?
In addition to evaluations, the RMV may expect you to take other corrective steps, such as:
- Attending substance abuse treatment at a certified facility.
- Participating regularly in therapy or counseling.
- Joining support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or similar programs.
- Working with a sponsor to support your recovery.
These steps show the RMV and the Board of Appeals that you are actively addressing the issues that led to the suspension.
Scheduling a Hearing With the RMV
Once you’ve begun taking the necessary steps, you must schedule a hearing with the RMV. This hearing can be conducted:
- Over the phone, or
- In person.
It’s critical to schedule your hearing as soon as possible. During the hearing, the RMV will explain the specific requirements you need to meet to be considered for reinstatement.
Important: The RMV may still deny your request to reinstate your license at this stage.
If the RMV Denies Reinstatement: Next Steps
If your hearing with the RMV does not result in your license being reinstated, you have the legal right to appeal the decision to the Massachusetts Board of Appeals.
The Board of Appeals functions independently from the RMV and has the power to:
- Overturn the RMV’s decision, or
- Grant you a hardship license that allows you to drive for essential purposes like work, school, and medical appointments.
How to Win at the Massachusetts Board of Appeals
When appealing to the Board of Appeals, it’s crucial to be prepared with:
- Documentation of your medical condition or recovery.
- Proof of completion of any treatment or counseling.
- Evidence of drug-free status (if applicable).
- Your personal story, including your work history and the impact losing your license has had on your family and livelihood.
The Board will look at the full picture, not just the RMV’s report.
Why You Shouldn’t Handle This Alone
This process is complex, stressful, and time-sensitive.
I understand how much losing your license affects your ability to work, care for your family, and handle daily responsibilities. I’ve helped many clients navigate this difficult process and successfully get their licenses reinstated—without unnecessary delays or confusion.
How Rightful Legal Can Help
If you’ve received an Immediate Threat Suspension Notice, call me directly at 617-821-5856 or click the link in the description to schedule a free, confidential consultation.
At Rightful Legal, we will:
- Help you prepare all necessary documentation.
- Represent you at the RMV hearing and, if needed, before the Board of Appeals.
- Fight to get your license back so you can get back on the road and move forward with your life.
