When it comes to driving, there are different levels of severity when it comes to penalties for breaking the law. Depending on the state, the class of license, and the infraction, the offenses can result in anything from a slap on the wrist to a long-term revoked license. But what’s the difference between a suspended license and a revoked license?
What Is a Suspended License?
A suspended license is a temporary removal of the privilege to drive. In most cases, a license is suspended for failing to pay child support, accumulating too many traffic tickets, or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. A license may also be suspended if the driver commits a serious traffic violation, such as hit and run, vehicular homicide, or driving on a suspended license.
The Process of Suspending a License
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The process of suspending a license usually starts with the receipt of a traffic ticket or other court summons. If the driver doesn’t pay the fine or show up for their court date, the court will issue a bench warrant for their arrest. Once the driver is arrested, they will have to go before a judge to determine whether their license will be suspended. If the judge decides to suspend the license, they will set a date for the suspension to begin.
The Length of a Suspension
The length of a suspension varies depending on the reason for the suspension. For example, a first-time DUI offense will typically result in a suspension of six to twelve months. However, a second DUI offense can lead to a suspension of up to two years.
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What Is a Revoked License?
A revoked license is a permanent withdrawal of the privilege to drive. A license may be revoked for accumulating too many traffic tickets, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or committing a serious traffic violation. In some cases, a license may be revoked if the driver is involved in a hit and run or if they are convicted of vehicular homicide.
The Process of Revoking a License
The process of revoking a license usually starts with the receipt of a traffic ticket or other court summons. If the driver doesn’t pay the fine or show up for their court date, the court will issue a bench warrant for their arrest. Once the driver is arrested, they will have to go before a judge to determine whether their license will be revoked. If the judge decides to revoke the license, they will set a date for the revocation to begin.
The Length of a revocation
The length of a revocation is typically permanent; however, there are some states that allow for the possibility of reinstatement after a certain period of time. For example, a driver may have their license revoked for a first-time DUI offense. However, after five years, they may be eligible to have their license reinstated.
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The Difference between Suspended vs Revoked
The main difference between a suspended license and a revoked license is the length of time that the driver is without driving privileges. A suspended license is temporary, while a revoked license is permanent. Additionally, a driver with a suspended license may be eligible for reinstatement after a certain period of time, while a driver with a revoked license is not.
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