What Is the Difference in a License Being Suspended or Revoked?

Having a drivers license revoked or suspended are similar consequences but are very different in definition. They are often thought of as being the same or talked about simultaneously.

License Suspension

A suspended driver's license results in the temporary loss of driving privileges and is less severe than a license revocation.

License Revoked

A revoked driver's license is a formal action to terminate a license, which cannot be renewed or restored.

Obtaining a New License

With a suspension, your driving privileges are reinstated after a specified amount of time. With a revoked license, you will need to apply for a new license since the revoked document will not be restored or renewed.

Mandatory Revocation

A driver's license will be revoked after a final conviction of manslaughter, or of vehicular homicide due to driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.

Reasons for Suspension and Revocation

Some reasons, other than driving under the influence, for having your license suspended or revoked include speeding, reckless driving, failure to pay fines, failure to attend a hearing, allowing a vehicle under your control to be operated in violation of a traffic law, violating driving laws, using another person's license to buy alcohol, using the vehicle to commit a crime, or if the driver is believed to pose a danger to the public.

References

• DUI Defenders: "Revocation vs Suspension"
• Lawyers.com: "Driving with a Revoked or Suspended License"
• Hocking & Dulle, Attorneys at Law: "License Revocation or Suspension"