Revoked License: Key Differences From Suspended (2025)

What Does It Mean to Have Your License Revoked?

A revoked license means that the DMV or similar institution in your state permanently takes away your license. Because driving is a privilege and not a right, your state can take your license away for a number of moving violations, as well as for reasons not related to driving.

Generally, your license will be revoked if you have multiple traffic violations and have accumulated traffic points in the states that follow the points system. The more serious the offense, the more points you receive.

In Florida, for example, leaving the scene of auto accidents involving property damage of more than $50 without providing contact information can earn you six points on your license. In this state, committing 15 violations that earn you points or three significant offenses within a period of five years could mean your license will be revoked.

Other violations that can earn you a revoked license, especially if it’s not your first offense, include:

• Reckless driving
• Failing to answer a traffic summons
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI)
• Drag racing

Non-driving-related reasons why your license could be revoked can include a conviction for a non-DUI-related drug offense, an alcohol or drug offense by a minor, failure to respond to a court order and the use of an altered license plate. One other very common reason for license revocation is the failure to pay child support.

People who are involved in traffic accidents without insurance can also have their licenses revoked.

Automatic License Revocation

You could face a mandatory revocation of your license as a result of a number of situations. A DUI arrest, for example, could allow law enforcement to immediately confiscate your license. You typically won’t have the opportunity to get a hearing before this occurs.

Although a suspension tends to be more likely than a revocation, it’s on a case-by-case basis. Hiring a DUI lawyer immediately after the arrest can help you avoid a complete revocation in favor of suspension.

What’s the Difference Between Suspended and Revoked Licenses?

But what does a suspended license mean? A suspended license means that you are temporarily not allowed to drive. The same reasons that could earn you a revocation could mean a suspension if it’s your first offense. With an attorney, there are ways of fighting the suspension, and once the period is over, you can apply for a reinstatement. Just keep in mind that if you think you can cheat the system by applying for a But what does a suspended license mean? A suspended license means that you are temporarily not allowed to drive. The same reasons that could earn you a revocation could mean a suspension if it’s your first offense. With an attorney, there are ways of fighting the suspension, and once the period is over, you can apply for a reinstatement. Just keep in mind that if you think you can cheat the system by applying for a new license in another state while yours is suspended, you'll be out of luck due to the Driver License Compact (DLC) system.

With a revocation, though, this is usually not possible, as you permanently lose the license. Once the period of revocation is over, you may be able to apply for a completely new license, but that means going through a hearing and then taking all of the necessary exams again.

Consequences of a Revoked License

A revoked license is a serious issue that can impact your daily life. You could struggle to get to work, meet family responsibilities and live your life as you used to. You could face added expenses, too, in the form of transportation costs.

But what if you continue to drive? Driving with either a suspended or revoked license could mean facing criminal charges. In California, for example, driving with a suspended or revoked license can earn you a misdemeanor charge that could be punishable by up to six months in jail.

If you are charged with a misdemeanor, you’ll have a criminal record. This is life-altering, since it can prevent you from working in some professions, having professional licenses and owning firearms.

Being involved in car accidents with a revoked or suspended license can mean even harsher consequences. These could involve significant fines as well as more substantial jail time and the risk of having a criminal record. Additionally, it can be very difficult to file a car accident lawsuit, even if the other party was to blame.

Since you were breaking the law by driving without a valid license, insurance companies will most likely not accept your claim. Without a car accident settlement, you can suffer serious financial losses.

Can I Get My Revoked License Back?

You won’t be able to get your license back, but you may be able to apply for a new one. To do so, however, you must meet a number of requirements. One of these is to abide by the waiting period. The reason for the revocation and other factors will dictate how long that is.

In Maryland, for example, the waiting period depends on whether you have had a previous revocation. If it’s your first one, you’ll have to wait six months, but if you’ve had two previous revocations, you will need to wait a year.

You’ll have to complete a driving improvement program, meet medical requirements (if the revocation involved a medical issue), and pay a fee. Keep in mind that you’ll also have to take the written and driving tests again because you’re getting a brand-new license.

To navigate this process, make sure to hire attorneys. Auto lawyers won’t be able to offer the assistance you need, so hire defense attorneys with experience in these kinds of cases.

How a Lawyer Can Help After a License Suspension or Revocation

If you are facing a license suspension or revocation, hiring an attorney is vital, especially if you’ve been charged with a DUI. Keep in mind that drivers’ actions don’t need to have resulted in car accidents to be considered serious enough to warrant license revocation.

After a suspension, your lawyer can request an administrative hearing and argue on your behalf. They can try to obtain a hardship license, which can grant you limited driving privileges. This is typically only an option if your license is suspended.

In some states, you may also have the chance to petition a higher court for a review of the case. Petitioning a higher court can be a long and costly process. Your lawyer can advise you as to whether pursuing this path is a good choice.

Find the Right Revoked License Attorney for Your Case Today

If you’re facing a license suspension or revocation, acting quickly can give you a better chance of preserving your driving privileges. A lawyer who has in-depth knowledge of your state’s laws can be essential, and by hiring an experienced attorney, you can receive the guidance you need to choose the best option for your situation.

At ConsumerShield, we know how stressful this process can be and how worried you may be about losing your license. We can connect you with some of the most trusted attorneys in your area to help you overcome this challenging time.

Going through any type of legal process on your own can put your future at risk. Your license is on the line, so don’t wait to get the assistance you need from a qualified attorney. Contact our team at ConsumerShield to learn more about our services today.