When a License Is Suspended for Speeding in Illinois
Are you worried about accumulating speeding tickets and how they might affect your driving privileges? Many Illinois drivers are surprised to learn that speeding violations can lead to license suspension, especially when they stack up over time. If you’re facing the possibility of having your license suspended for speeding or are already dealing with a suspension or revocation, understanding your options is crucial.
At Johnson & Goldrich, P.C., we help drivers navigate license suspension and work toward reinstatement. Contact our Illinois driver’s license reinstatement attorneys to schedule a free consultation.
Can You Get Your License Suspended for Speeding?
Yes, you can lose your license for speeding in Illinois. While a single speeding ticket typically won’t result in suspension, multiple violations can trigger automatic suspension through the Illinois point system.
Illinois Point System & License Suspension for Speeding
Illinois uses a point system to track moving violations on your driving record. Different violations carry different point values. For speeding offenses, examples include:
- Speeding 1-10 mph over the limit: 5 points
- Speeding 11-14 mph over the limit: 15 points
- Speeding 15-25 mph over the limit: 20 points
- Speeding 25+ mph over the limit: 50 points
- Speeding too fast for conditions: 10 points
- Speeding on a bridge or elevated structure: 10 points
Points are typically higher for speeding violations in park, school, and construction zones. However, the primary reason for license suspension is the accumulation of violations rather than points alone.
How Many Speeding Tickets Before a License is Suspended?
Violations and point accumulation within a specified period can lead to suspension in Illinois. Three convictions within 12 months will result in license suspension, and the length of time depends on the number of points. For example:
- 15-44 points: 2-month suspension
- 45-74 points: 3-month suspension
- More points result in longer suspensions or even revocation.
This rule applies regardless of whether the violations are all speeding tickets or a combination of different traffic violations. The consequences of accumulating points are different for drivers under age 21, with lower thresholds for suspension or revocation.
For more information, visit our blog: How Many Tickets Before License is Suspended in Illinois
Types of Speeding-Related Suspensions
Mandatory Suspension for Multiple Violations
When you reach three moving violations within a 12-month period (or two moving violations within a 24-month period for drivers under 21), the Secretary of State will suspend your license.
Discretionary Suspension for Serious Offenses
For extreme speeding violations or when speeding is combined with other dangerous behaviors, the Secretary of State may use discretionary authority to suspend your license. This can happen even before you reach three violations. However, not all speeding violations will lead to discretionary suspension. This power is usually used for more serious cases or when a speeding offense is part of a broader pattern of dangerous conduct.
Options During Your Suspension
Restricted Driving Permit (RDP)
You may be eligible for an RDP, which allows you to drive under specific restrictions for essential purposes. These can include work, school, medical appointments, or other necessary activities during the suspension period.
This permit can help you maintain some mobility after a license suspension. However, eligibility depends on your specific situation and driving history.
Getting Your License Back
If you were caught speeding and now have a suspended license, you will need to work to restore your driving privileges. Reinstating your license typically requires:
- Completing the full suspension period
- Paying reinstatement fees
- Resolving outstanding fines or court requirements
- Applying for reinstatement with the Illinois Secretary of State’s office
- Attending a hearing if required
- Providing proof of insurance (SR-22 may be required)
- Passing any required tests, such as driving, written, or vision tests
Each step must be completed properly to avoid delays in regaining your driving privileges. The specific requirements will vary based on your individual case.
Take Action To Regain Your Driving Privileges
If you’re facing multiple speeding violations or already dealing with a license suspension, don’t wait to seek legal help. License suspension affects your ability to work, care for your family, and handle daily responsibilities.
At Johnson & Goldrich, P.C., our driver’s license lawyers focus exclusively on license reinstatement. If you’re working to get your license back after speeding violations, we can help you understand the process and your options. Contact us to discuss your situation and learn how we can help you restore your driving privileges. Schedule a free case consultation today!