How Does a Driver’s License Suspension Differ from a Revocation?

 Posted on October 29, 2019 in Driver's License Reinstatement

Having the ability to drive is something that the majority of Americans rely on to go about their day-to-day lives. We use our vehicles to go to work, school, doctor’s appointments, and run errands. Losing the ability to drive can be annoying for some, and it may be financially crippling for others. In Illinois, there are two common ways that you can lose your driving privileges: through a license revocation or a license suspension. Though the terms might seem like they can be used interchangeably, they are actually two different penalties that can apply to drivers, and they carry different consequences.

License Suspensions

A driver’s license suspension is a less-permanent form of losing your driving privileges. Typically, license suspensions are the result of lesser violations when compared to license revocations. If your license is suspended, you will usually lose your driving privileges for a specific length of time. When that period is up, you may pay a reinstatement fee, and you will likely be able to get your driving privileges back unless your offense has specified otherwise. Common reasons your license can be suspended include:

• Failing a chemical test after a DUI arrest

• Refusing to submit to a chemical test after a DUI arrest

• Failing to pay child support

• Failing to appear in court for a traffic violation

• Having any amount of alcohol in your system if you are under the age of 21

License Revocations

Driver’s license revocations are typically the result of more serious traffic violations. If your driver’s license has been revoked, you will lose your driving privileges for an indefinite period of time. Typically, you are not able to apply to have your license reinstated after revocation for at least one year, unless your specific violation states otherwise. To have your license reinstated, you will have to attend a hearing with the Secretary of State and pay a reinstatement fee. Common violations that can result in a driver’s license revocation include:

• Being convicted of an aggravated or felony DUI

• Stealing a motor vehicle

• Street racing

• Fleeing from the scene of an accident that injured or killed someone

• Reckless driving 

Contact an Arlington Heights, IL Traffic Violation Attorney 

Many people think that getting their driver's license back once it has been suspended or revoked is too difficult. However, with proper representation from a skilled Rolling Meadows, IL driver’s license reinstatement lawyer, you can be certain you are doing everything you can to get back behind the wheel. Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law has handled hundreds of driver’s license reinstatement cases, and he can help you with yours. The biggest mistake you can make is trying to represent yourself at your reinstatement hearing. Call our office today at 847-253-3400 to schedule a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/drivers/losepriv.html

https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_a112.pdf