A “Habitual Traffic Offender” (HTO) hearing has several different layers. The first is assessing whether a driver actually qualifies under DOL regulations as a habitual offender. Under RCW 46.65.020, the Department of Licensing assesses the driver’s record for a five-year period to see if the driver has accumulated a certain number of offenses listed in the statute. These records can often be complicated, especially if out-of-state offenses involved. If the driver is found to be a habitual offender, the DOL will revoke that driver’s license. However, even if a driver is deemed a habitual offender and the license is revoked, a driver may be eligible for a “stay” of this action (meaning they can continue legally driving) if the offenses underlying the revocation were the result of a substance abuse issue and the driver has undertaken a certified treatment regimen to address the issue. Finally, a driver may be eligible for early reinstatement from HTO status in certain circumstances if they fulfill all DOL requirements. HTO hearings can be complicated and involve extensive records and regulatory requirements. It is always wise to consult with an attorney who has experience in these hearings to ensure everything is addressed properly.