Discovering your driver’s license has been suspended or revoked in Illinois can be overwhelming. Whether it’s due to a DUI charge, driving without insurance, or other violations, losing your driving privileges affects every aspect of your daily life. At Johnson & Goldrich, P.C., we’ve spent years helping Illinois residents understand and navigate the complex process of license reinstatement.
Many people don’t realize how many different situations can lead to license suspension or revocation in Illinois. While some cases might seem straightforward, others catch drivers by surprise. In this blog, we’ll discuss some of the reasons for suspended licenses and revocation penalties.
Continue reading to learn more about what could cause you to lose your license in Illinois. We also invite you to contact our law firm if you’re fighting to regain your driving privileges.
Reasons for a License Being Suspended or Revoked
In the state of Illinois, there are many reasons why your license may be suspended or revoked. When this happens, you may find yourself facing two different uphill battles. The first is finding ways to travel to and from places in a timely fashion after losing your driving privileges. The second is undergoing the legal process to get your license back.
Below is a list of some of the Secretary of State’s reasons for suspending driver’s licenses in Illinois or revoking them.
- Charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
- Underage drinking and driving
- Leaving the scene of an accident where injury or death occurred
- A moving violation that resulted in death of another person
- Driving recklessly and causing great bodily harm, permanent disability, or disfigurement to another person
- 3 convictions of reckless driving within 12 months
- Driving without car insurance
- Drag/street racing
- Stealing a motor vehicle or auto parts
- Giving false information to the Secretary of State
- Failing or refusing chemical testing following a DUI arrest
- Failing to pay 5 or more automated traffic violation tickets (for violating a red-light signal, speeding, or a combination of these offenses)
- Causing an accident in a construction zone
- Not appearing in court for any traffic citation before January 1st, 2020
- Not obeying a railroad-crossing signal
- History of unpaid child support
- Making or possessing the equipment to make, sell, use, or help someone else use a fake ID or license
- Displaying, using, or trying to use an altered driver’s license or ID card
- Illegal transportation of alcohol
- Failing to report an accident
- School bus violations, such as failing to stop for a bus
- Not filing for SR-22 insurance when required
- Obtaining 3 traffic violation convictions within a year
- If under 21 years of age, 2 traffic violations within a 2-year period
These reasons for having a license revoked or suspended range from serious criminal offenses to simple oversights. However, they all share one thing in common: The consequences can disrupt your daily life.
How a Suspension or Revocation Impacts Your Life
The impact of a suspended or revoked license extends far beyond the inconvenience of finding alternative transportation. It can affect your employment, especially if driving is part of your job duties. It can also increase your car insurance rates, lead to hefty fines, and even result in criminal charges.
Steps To Take After Receiving a License Suspension or Revocation Notice
Learning that your license has been suspended or revoked can be shocking, but taking immediate action is crucial. Here’s what you should do as soon as you receive notice of a suspension or revocation from the Secretary of State:
- First, carefully read the entire notice from the Secretary of State’s office. This document contains crucial information about why your license was suspended or revoked, the length of the suspension period, and what steps you need to take. Take note of any deadlines mentioned. Missing these dates can lengthen your suspension or complicate the reinstatement process.
- Stop driving immediately. Continuing to drive can result in criminal charges and an extension of your suspension. If you’re pulled over while driving on a suspended license, you could face jail time and additional penalties that make reinstatement even more difficult.
- Begin addressing any issues that led to the suspension. This might include setting up payment plans for child support or scheduling necessary drug/alcohol evaluations.
- Gather all relevant documentation related to your suspension or revocation. This includes:
- The official notice from the Secretary of State
- Any related traffic tickets or court documents
- Insurance information
- Previous driving records or violations
- Proof of completion for any required programs or courses
Check if you’re eligible for a Restricted Driving Permit (RDP). In some cases, you may qualify for limited driving privileges that allow you to drive to work, school, or medical appointments. However, eligibility depends on the reason for your suspension and your previous driving record.
Contact Our License Reinstatement Law Firm
To get your license reinstated, you need a reliable and seasoned Illinois driver’s license reinstatement attorney. At Johnson & Goldrich, P.C., you will receive help from professionals who know the ins and outs of the Illinois legal system. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first steps toward getting back on the road!