Getting into trouble when driving happens. But do you know the
Knowing the difference between the two is important if you find yourself in trouble for certain types of traffic violations. A rule of thumb is a suspended license is bad, but a revoked license is extremely bad. Here is the difference.
Suspended Driver License
If this happens to you because of a driving violation it means that your licenses is temporarily suspended. When this happens you cannot drive legally within that time frame of a suspended license. Keep in mind that there are two different types of suspended licesnes that can take place. They are:
- Definite suspension
- Indefinite suspension
Definite suspension
The definite suspension means that once your suspension period is up and you pay the proper fines and fees are paid your license may be reinstated. Do keep in mind that most of these fees will vary depending on what state you reside in.
Indefinite suspension
This means that a license will stay suspended until the proper action is taken. When we say action we are referring to paying of fines like a traffic ticket, taxes or child support. Do not drive on a suspended license. Doing so could result in more fines and even a possible revoked licnese.
*Some states have a medical condition that could make you danger on the road and your license could be indefiniteness suspended under an administrative review suspension
Here are some reasons why a license can be suspended:
- Driving without insurance
- DUI or DWI
- Drug-related violation
- Too many traffic tickets
This is just some of the reasons why a license could be suspended. Keep in mind that these reasons can vary by state to state.
Revoked License
A revoked license is much more severe and all 50 states allow for a driver license to get revoked. This means that your license has been canceled and cannot be reinstated. There is a long process to request approval to get your license possibly reinstated. In order to get the approval you will have to:
- Get approval from our states DMV
- Pay any fines
- Head through your states licensing process
Must states require written test and road test
After going through the process and clearing up the outstanding issues and passing tests if asked to do so, you might be able to get a new driver license. The old license does not get reinstated. Here are the more common reasons that a license could get revoked.
- No insurance while driving
- False vehicle registration
- Multiple DUIs
Certain number of traffic ticket points- Driving with a
syspended license
The below can get your driving license revoked but typically after these happen over multiple periods of time.
- Reckless driving
- Not answering traffic summons
- Drag racing
- Leaving the scene of accident that caused injury
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Your best bet is to try and keep your driving record as clear and free of infractions as possible. It is common sense not to get behind the wheel of a vehicle after drinking. This could lead to criminal charges and worse.
Follow the speed limits and rules that have been set up for your safety and the safety of others. The above guide should give anyone the ability to distinguish between a revoked vs suspended license. Both are bad and should be avoided.
