Driving With a Suspended License: Consequences & How We Help
Driving with a suspended license in Illinois is a serious offense with lasting consequences. If you’re facing charges related to driving on a suspended license, it’s important to understand the penalties.
At Johnson & Goldrich, P.C., we focus exclusively on driver’s license reinstatement. Our attorneys help people regain their driving privileges after suspension and revocation. We have years of experience guiding clients through the Secretary of State’s reinstatement process. If you’re currently suspended or trying to drive legally during a suspension, we can help you move forward.
Contact us now to schedule a free consultation.
Driving With a Suspended License in Illinois
If your license has been suspended, that means the state has temporarily taken away your legal right to drive. Some common reasons for license suspension or revocation in Illinois include:
- DUI-related offenses
- Refusal or failure of a chemical test
- Accumulating too many tickets within a specified period
- Failure to pay child support
- Driving without auto insurance
Driving with a suspended license means operating a vehicle while your license is still invalid. Under Illinois law (625 ILCS 5/6-303), this is a criminal offense and is a Class A misdemeanor.
If you need an attorney after driving with a suspended license, Johnson & Goldrich, P.C., can help. Our role is to help you get back on the road legally and responsibly. Contact our law firm today to schedule a free consultation about your reinstatement case.
Consequences of Driving On a Suspended License
The consequences of driving with a suspended license in Illinois vary depending on your history and the reason for your suspension.
First Offense
- Class A misdemeanor
- Jail time (up to 364 days)
- Up to $2,500 in fines plus required court fees
- Extension of your Illinois license suspension
Multiple Offenses or Aggravating Factors
Reinstating your license in Illinois after repeat offenses or aggravating circumstances can take some time. These situations can increase the consequences of driving on a suspended license and result in:
- Felony charges
- Mandatory jail time
- Longer suspension periods or full revocation
For example, if your driving privileges were suspended due to driving under the influence (DUI), a first offense for driving with a suspended license leads to:
- Mandatory minimum of 10 days in jail or 240 hours of community service
- Up to $2,500 in fines
- An extension of your suspension
All of these are serious consequences, but it’s important to understand that you can regain your driving privileges. Our lawyers can help you get back on the road legally. If eligible, we can even assist you in obtaining driving relief during your suspension.
Restricted Driving Options
If your license is currently suspended or revoked, you may be eligible for a Restricted Driving Permit (RDP). This permit allows you to drive to work, medical appointments, school, or other approved destinations. We’ll help determine your eligibility and walk you through the application process.
Why Hire a Suspended License Lawyer for Reinstatement?
Getting your license reinstated in Illinois is not as simple as paying a fine or waiting out your suspension. In many cases, you must go through a formal hearing with the Illinois Secretary of State.
At Johnson & Goldrich, P.C., we help clients facing suspensions and revocations work through the Secretary of State’s complex process. We can:
- Evaluate your driving record and suspension history
- Prepare and represent you at Secretary of State hearings
- Help you apply for an RDP
- Guide you through license reinstatement requirements
- Support you in meeting all compliance steps
As an experienced license reinstatement law firm, we know how to present your case effectively and help you get the best possible outcome.
Let Us Help You Get Back On the Road
Being charged with driving with a suspended license can disrupt every part of your life— but it doesn’t have to define your future. We provide the tools, guidance, and representation needed to restore your driving privileges in Illinois.
Our role is focused, specific, and effective: We help you get your license back. Whether you’re currently suspended or preparing for a reinstatement hearing, Johnson & Goldrich, P.C. is here to help.
Contact us to speak with a lawyer if you’ve been convicted of driving on a suspended license. We can help you get back on the road, quickly and legally. Schedule a free consultation with an Illinois driver’s license reinstatement attorney today.