Boston Habitual Traffic Offender Lawyer – Fight Your License Suspension
If you've been labeled a Habitual Traffic Offender (HTO) in Massachusetts, you're likely facing a four-year license suspension—with no ability to apply for a hardship license for at least one year. But this doesn’t have to be the end of the road.
At DeGiacomo & Mikhlin, P.C., we help drivers across Massachusetts challenge HTO suspensions, file appeals with the RMV Board of Appeals, and explore every possible path to get back behind the wheel.
Don’t go it alone. An HTO suspension is serious—but with the right legal guidance, you may have options.
What Is a Habitual Traffic Offender (HTO) in Massachusetts?
Under Massachusetts law (M.G.L. c. 90 § 22F), the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) can designate someone as a Habitual Traffic Offender if they accumulate three major moving violations (like OUIs, reckless driving, or operating with a suspended license) or 12 minor violations (like speeding or failure to yield) within a five-year period.
Once labeled an HTO, your license will be automatically revoked for four years.
Common Violations That Can Trigger HTO Suspensions
Major offenses:
- Operating under the influence (OUI)
- Reckless or negligent operation
- Operating after suspension or revocation
- Leaving the scene of an accident
- Vehicular manslaughter
Minor offenses:
- Speeding tickets
- Lane violations
- Failure to stop or yield
- Improper passing
- License plate violations
You don’t have to be a criminal to end up with an HTO suspension—many drivers are blindsided when traffic tickets pile up and suddenly cost them their license.
Can You Get a Hardship License as an HTO?
Yes—but only under specific circumstances.
You must serve at least one year of your four-year HTO suspension before you can apply for a hardship license through the RMV Board of Appeals. This license typically allows 12-hour driving for work, school, or medical needs.
The Board doesn’t grant hardship licenses automatically. They require:
- Proof of a legitimate hardship (e.g., job loss, inability to attend medical appointments)
- Evidence of rehabilitation or improved driving behavior
- A solid plan for safe driving going forward
This is where an experienced attorney makes all the difference.
How We Help Clients with HTO Suspensions
Our firm represents clients at every stage of the HTO suspension process, including:
- Reviewing your driving record and identifying errors that may have triggered the HTO designation incorrectly
- Advising on license reinstatement eligibility
- Filing and preparing a strong appeal with the RMV Board of Appeals
- Guiding you through the hearing process, including gathering support documentation and representing you in person or via Zoom
- Applying for a hardship license after the required one-year period, with full preparation for success
We’ve helped countless drivers across Massachusetts restore their licenses after HTO suspensions—whether by challenging the designation itself, reducing violations on record, or securing hardship licenses when eligible.
What Makes This Firm Different?
Feel Confident in Choosing Degiacomo & Mikhlin, P.C.
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Available to Clients 24/7
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Nearly a Decade of Legal Experience
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Successfully Defended Hundreds of Clients
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Former Prosecutors & Knows How That Side Thinks
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Represented Clients in MA District, Superior, & Appellate Courts
FAQs About Habitual Traffic Offender Suspensions
How long is a habitual traffic offender license suspension in Massachusetts?
Four years. You may be eligible for a hardship license after serving one year.
What counts as a major or minor violation?
Major violations include OUIs, driving after suspension, and reckless driving. Minor violations include speeding, stop sign violations, and lane infractions.
Can I fight the HTO designation?
Yes—in some cases, the RMV record may contain errors or outdated violations. An experienced attorney can help challenge the basis for your HTO status.
What is the process for getting a hardship license?
You must appeal to the RMV Board of Appeals and present a strong case for why you need limited driving privileges. Legal representation greatly improves your chances of success.
Why Choose Us?
- We know the RMV system and Board of Appeals inside and out
- We’ve helped clients reverse HTO suspensions and secure hardship licenses
- We provide honest, strategic advice to guide you at every step
- We fight hard for your right to drive again