Suspended License vs. Revoked License in Illinois
If you’ve lost your driving privileges in Illinois, understanding whether your license is suspended or revoked is crucial. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they represent very different situations with distinct reinstatement processes.
What Is a Suspended License?
A license suspension is a temporary withdrawal of your driving privileges for a specific period. The key aspect of a suspended license is that it has a defined end date. Once the suspension period ends and you fulfill all requirements, you can usually regain your driving privileges after paying a fee.
Types of License Suspension
Illinois has a few types of license suspension:
- Discretionary Suspension
The Secretary of State has the authority to suspend your license based on your driving record and certain violations. For example, your license will be suspended if you’re convicted of driving under the influence (DUI).
- Statutory Summary Suspension
This automatic suspension occurs when you fail or refuse chemical testing after being arrested for DUI.
- Field Sobriety Test Suspension
This occurs when you refuse or fail standardized field sobriety tests for suspected cannabis impairment. The consequences include a 12-month suspension for refusal, or a 6-month suspension for showing impairment.
To learn the other types of license suspension in Illinois, visit the Secretary of State’s page on reinstatement fees.
Length of License Suspension
The duration of a license suspension varies based on the offense:
- First-time minor offenses: 1-3 months
- More serious violations: 3-12 months
- Multiple or severe violations: Up to several years
What Is a Revoked License?
A revoked license means your driving privileges have been terminated. The key difference between suspension and revocation is that a revocation has no automatic end date. A revoked license is not simply a pause in your driving privileges, but a complete cancellation.
Common Reasons for License Revocation in Illinois
Your license may be revoked for:
- DUI conviction(s)
- Auto theft
- Leaving the scene of an accident involving serious injury or death
- Using a vehicle while committing a felony
- Making a fraudulent driver’s license or ID
- Street racing
- And other serious offenses
Length of License Revocation
License revocation periods depend on the offense and your driving history. For DUIs, the following rules apply:
- First DUI conviction: Minimum 1-year revocation
- Second DUI within 20 years: Minimum 5-year revocation
- Third DUI: Minimum 10-year revocation
- Four or more DUIs: Lifetime revocation
After a revocation period ends, your license won’t automatically qualify for reinstatement. You must request a formal hearing with the Secretary of State to file for reinstatement.
Key Differences Between Suspension and Revocation: Reinstatement
Understanding the differences between reinstatement procedures for suspended licenses and revoked licenses can help you navigate them.
For a Suspended License
- You must wait until your suspension period ends
- Pay all outstanding tickets and fines
- Pay the reinstatement fee (typically $70-$500, depending on the violation)
- Provide proof of insurance (SR-22 if required)
- Complete any required courses or programs
- Pass the written test (if required)
For a Revoked License
- Wait until your minimum revocation period ends
- Request an Illinois Secretary of State formal hearing
- Prepare all required documentation
- Undergo an alcohol/drug evaluation if your revocation was related to substance use
- Complete any recommended treatment or education programs
- Attend your hearing
- If approved, pay reinstatement fees
- Obtain high-risk insurance (SR-22)
- Retake and pass the complete driver’s license examination (written, vision, and road tests)
Driving Options During Suspension or Revocation
Restricted Driving Permit (RDP)
In some circumstances, you may be eligible for a Restricted Driving Permit that allows limited driving for:
- Employment
- Medical care
- Educational purposes
- Alcohol/drug treatment programs
- Family responsibilities, such as caring for children or elderly
Anyone under age 16 cannot receive an RDP.
Eligibility for an RDP depends on:
- The reason for your suspension or revocation
- Your driving history
- How long your driving privileges have been withdrawn
- Evidence that you’ve addressed any underlying issues
Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP)
For first-time DUI offenders serving a statutory summary suspension, the MDDP allows driving if you install a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) in your vehicle. A driver under age 18 cannot receive an MDDP.
Occupational Driving Permit (ODP)
An ODP allows professional drivers whose licenses were suspended for three moving violations to drive for employment purposes only. This doesn’t apply to commercial drivers.
Probationary License
Drivers over 21 whose licenses were suspended for three moving violations in a 12-month period may receive a probationary license. This requires completion of a driver improvement course and grants full driving privileges during the suspension.
Family Financial Responsibility Permit (FRP)
Drivers who face license suspension due to child support nonpayment or visitation abuse may be eligible for an FRP.
Get Help With License Reinstatement
Navigating license suspension or revocation in Illinois can be complicated. An experienced reinstatement license attorney can explain the specific requirements for your situation and help you prepare for hearings.
If you’re dealing with a suspended or revoked license, Johnson & Goldrich, P.C., is here to help. Our firm focuses exclusively on driver’s license reinstatement for Illinois drivers, providing extensive knowledge and experience. We’ll develop strategies for your case and guide you through each step of the process.
Having professional representation often means the difference between continued suspension and successful reinstatement. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your situation and learn about your options to get back on the road.