State of Nevada DMV Banner - Click for Home Page Seal of Nevada

Office of Administrative Hearings

Blue Dot  General Information & Contacts

Forms Help | Back To Top

Individuals and businesses regulated by the Department of Motor Vehicles have the right to appeal most administrative sanctions imposed by the Department. Typical cases include appeals of driver license withdrawals and vehicle registration suspensions. The following form is used to file for an appeal:

Fill-In PDF - Click for help Insurance Hearing Request (IVP-005) 
To request an Administrative Hearing for vehicle registration suspensions. 

Fill-In PDF - Click for help License Plate Hearing Request (SP-75)
To request an Administrative Hearing for denied or recalled personalized license plate numbers. 

For more information, contact any branch of the Office of Administrative Hearings.

  • Carson City - 555 Wright Way - (775) 684-4572
  • Las Vegas -  2701 East Sahara Avenue - (702) 486-4940
  • Elko - 3920 East Idaho Street -  (775) 753-1239
  • Statewide - Toll Free Number -  (800) 992-0900 ext. 3240
Written requests should be directed to:
Office of Administrative Hearings
555 Wright Way
Carson City, NV 89711-0960

Blue Dot  What is an Administrative Court?

Back To Top

Most people are familiar with two general types of courts and laws: Criminal and Civil.

Many do not know there are other, specialized courts and different bodies of law in the United States. Examples include Bankruptcy Court, IRS Tax Court and the most common type of "other" court, the Administrative Court.

Administrative Courts oversee government agencies. They ensure the public's right to appeal actions taken under agency regulations.

The Office of Administrative Hearings is the court of appeal for administrative actions taken by the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles. It is a recognized court of jurisdiction which operates under the same basic principles as any other court.

  • The judge is required by specific statute to be independent, impartial and fair.
  • You can represent yourself or have an attorney represent you.
  • The judge's decision is final and binding, subject to appeal only in District Court or the Nevada Supreme Court.
  • Administrative Hearings are completely separate from criminal or civil cases. One case has no direct impact on another.

Blue Dot  The Administrative Law Judge

Back To Top

Administrative Law Judges are selected on merit based on demonstrated ability, experience and qualifications. Each candidate must pass rigorous examinations.

Although the Office of Administrative Hearings is part of the Department, the judges have a legal and ethical responsibility to maintain their independence and professionalism.

Administrative Law Judges participate in continuing legal education and judicial training under the auspices of the National Judicial College at the University of Nevada, Reno.

There are currently five judges in the Department. Three are posted in Las Vegas, one in Elko and one in the Carson City/Reno area. Judges also travel statewide to conduct hearings as the need arises.

They are supported by four clerical staff members in Las Vegas, one in Elko and two in Carson City.

Blue Dot  What to Expect at a Hearing

Back To Top

Administrative Hearings are conducted in much the same manner as civil and criminal trials in which a judge issues the verdict.

  • Witnesses testify under oath.
  • Witnesses may be cross-examined.
  • The judge may subpoena witnesses or evidence.
  • The judge may consider physical evidence.
  • The judge may consider settlement offers.
  • The judge must consider all appropriate statutes, regulations and case law.
  • The judge may or may not issue an immediate ruling, depending on the complexity of the case.
  • Casual dress is acceptable, but dress should be appropriate for a court hearing.
  • Abusive or disruptive behavior or any sign of intoxication will not be tolerated.
  • There are no fees for the hearings.
  • Hearings are open to the public and recorded on audio tape.
 
 

DMV Logo - Click for Home Page

Driver License | Registration | License Plates | Forms
Locations | FAQs | Online Services | Site Map | Home
 

Nevada Internet Privacy Policy (PDF)
Federal Rehabilitation Act (Section 508)

E-Mail: info@dmv.state.nv.us
Please include your plate number or other
 information needed to research your request.
Copyright © 1997-2008 Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles