Can I contest or appeal the suspension?
To prevent the suspension from taking effect, you may appeal the suspension within 15 days from the date on your notification letter. The letter we sent to you includes a form for appealing the suspension.
You also may request an interview or hearing any time after the 15–day period, but your license will remain suspended pending the outcome of the interview or hearing.
What will be considered during my appeal?
- Whether a qualified chemical dependency professional diagnosed your condition as moderate or severe Substance Use Disorder.
- Whether you are in compliance with the recommended treatment program.
For more information, see Hearings.
Changes to treatment terms
- Diagnostic and treatment terms have been updated and no longer use terms Drug or Alcohol Abuse or Drug or Alcohol Addict as described in RCW 46.20.031 (3): Ineligibility.
- A condition previously described as Drug or Alcohol Abuse is now described as Mild Substance Use Disorder.
- A condition previously described as Drug or Alcohol Addict is now described as Moderate to Severe Substance Use Disorder.
How can I get my license back?
If you live in WA, your treatment provider can submit the Alcohol/Drug Assessment/Treatment Report (ATR) electronically.
If you don't live in WA, your treatment provider must submit the Alcohol/Drug Assessment/Treatment Report (ATR) to us:
- Fax: 360.570.7044
- Mail:
Department of Licensing
Attn: Medical/Alcohol
PO Box 9030
Olympia, WA 98507–9030
We'll release the suspension when your treatment provider notifies us an assessment has been completed and you've completed or complied with your treatment program.
Get step–by–step instructions
There may be other issues you'll need to take care of to get your license back. To find out what you need to do, see Learn how to reinstate your license.
Questions? Need help?
Call us: 360.902.3900 (TTY: Call 711)