Losing your driving privileges can be a major headache. In Illinois, the state can suspend or revoke your license for many reasons. Understanding the differences between these penalties and how to regain your driving rights is crucial. Let's dive into the details surrounding Illinois license revocation and suspension.
Suspension vs. Revocation: What's the Difference?
A license suspension is a temporary loss of driving privileges. Once the suspension period ends, you can restore your license by paying a reinstatement fee to the Secretary of State. Depending on the reason for the suspension, you may need to meet additional requirements before you can drive again. For example, this may include completing a remedial education driving course or acquiring SR-22 insurance.
On the other hand, a license revocation is more serious and can last indefinitely. The revocation cancellation date is the projected eligibility date (when you are able to request reinstatement). At this point, you'll need to attend a hearing with the Secretary of State to restore your driving privileges.
How Long Are License Suspensions?
The length of license suspensions in Illinois vary based on the offense(s) committed. For example, anyone under the age of 21 convicted of 2 or more moving violations within a 24-month period will have their driver’s license suspended for at least 30 days.
If a driver submits to chemical testing and their blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08% or more, they'll receive a 6-month suspension. If a driver refuses chemical testing, authorities will suspend their driving privileges for 1 year. A revocation can result if the offender is convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DUI).
If a driver is under 21 and has any amount of alcohol in their system, they will lose their driving privileges for 3 months. They will receive a 6-month suspension if they refuse to complete a BAC test.
To understand the severity of your suspension, you should get in contact with the Secretary of State. It's also wise to consult a qualified traffic law attorney to review your legal options.
Reasons for License Suspension in Illinois
Some examples of reasons for license suspension include:
Failing to pay child support (for 90 days)
Failing to appear in court for traffic violations
Refusing a drug or alcohol test
Failing to report a traffic crash
Driving without insurance
Being the responsible driver in a car accident without insurance and owing damages
License Revocation Timeline
A revoked license means your driving privileges have been terminated. You may reapply for a license on or after the projected eligibility date. A driver becomes eligible for license reinstatement only after a minimum 12-month period. However, this timeframe can vary depending on the severity of the offense(s) that led to revocation.
Reasons for License Revocation in Illinois
Some reasons for license revocation include:
DUI convictions
Leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or death
Creating or having equipment to make, sell, or use unauthorized IDs or driver’s licenses
Engaging in a gang-related offense that involves the use of a vehicle or an Illinois driver's license
Committing a felony while using a vehicle
Passing or overtaking a school bus that leads to an accident resulting in a fatality
What Happens After I Pay My Reinstatement Fee in Illinois?
One important Illinois driver's license suspension rule is that you must pay a reinstatement fee to regain driving privileges. Once you pay this fee, there still may be other requirements you need to meet before your driver's license is valid again.
For example, someone caught driving without insurance is also subject to a minimum $500 fine. They must also provide proof of insurance before they can drive legally. While an offender serving a statutory summary suspension cannot regain their driving privileges unless other suspensions/revocations on their driving record are closed.
Getting your license back after revocation is even more complicated. You'll need to request a hearing with the Secretary of State and pay a reinstatement fee. You may also need to obtain SR-22 insurance, provide evidence of rehabilitation, pass written and road tests, etc.
Contact Lofgren Legal
If the state of Illinois has suspended or revoked your license, we can help you navigate the reinstatement process. At Lofgren Legal, Attorney Niklas Lofgren dedicates himself to helping clients regain their driving privileges.
Don't let a suspended or revoked license disrupt your daily life. Contact us today to request a free consultation and receive unmatched legal assistance. Our criminal defense and DUI attorney has extensive knowledge of Illinois law surrounding driver's license reinstatement.