Understanding the Difference Between Driving License Suspension and License Revocation

It is a common misconception that driving is a man's "right". However, it is only an option granted by the State. It can be revoked, or suspended for any reason.

A suspension can be either permanent or temporary, and is lifted after a specified period of time - typically when fines are paid or arrears in child support are paid. A revocation is permanent and requires you to apply for a license.

What is a suspension of the driver's license?

While the laws in each state may differ however, a suspension is typically an interim condition that will stop you from driving for a specific period of time. The suspension could last for up to a year according to the laws of the state and also the reason for the suspension. A revocation on the other hand means that your driving permit is revoked permanently and it is very difficult to obtain it.

Typically, you will be allowed to drive during a suspension only for specific reasons, such as work or for transport to and from school or a doctor's appointment. Usually, the court will allow you to apply during this period for restricted license. If you are convicted for driving with a suspended licence and this results in a criminal record which could impact many aspects of your life, such as the job, housing, and immigration status.

The reason that people commonly have their license suspended is due to traffic-related violations. This can be due to speeding or running an red light or stop sign, not signalling prior to changing lanes, etc. Some people might even be able to have their driver's license revoked due to other reasons like failing to pay child or spousal support.

If you're caught driving on a suspended license in New York, the formal charge is known as "aggravated unlicensed operation." The level of AUO will differ based on the severity of the offense was but can vary from a misdemeanor up to a felony. Driving on a suspended or revoked license will also result in higher insurance rates.

A skilled defense attorney can help you defend yourself against your charges (in the traffic or criminal court) and get your license reinstated. This can be done by presenting evidence like witness testimony or video evidence that supports your account of events. In addition, a skilled attorney is often able to negotiate the reduction of penalties, such as the cost to reinstate your driver's license. This fee may include paying a penalty as well as taking a state-approved driver improvement course. It is important to keep your record clean so that you don't lose your driver's license in the future.

What is an Revocation?

Many people have heard the terms "suspension" and "revocation" used interchangeably. While both could affect your driving privileges, they're two distinct actions. The primary difference is that a suspension is only temporary while a revocation is permanent. A suspension is often caused by a violation that has a direct impact on the driver's safety. Revocations can be the result of a serious criminal incident that is not directly connected with driving.

A suspension typically lasts for a set amount of time unless indefinite. In this situation, the suspension can only be lifted by paying a surcharge or fine or by completing a program to stop impaired driving (IDP). Revocations are permanent and you will not be able to get your license back after the revocation period ends.

In New York, drivers may also be disqualified if they are found guilty of DWI, DWAI, or refusing to undergo the chemical test. The longer the suspension or revocation is, the more serious the offence.

Other incidents can result in the suspension of a New York driver’s license suspension such as not paying traffic fines, failing to appear before a judge and refusing to take a breathalyzer or blood test if stopped by a police officer. These kinds of incidents are typically followed by a lengthy license suspension.

In June of 2021, New York state passed legislation that eliminated the practice of suspending drivers licenses issued by FTAs or FTCs in traffic courts, however this is not the only state that has done so. Police may still choose to stop drivers according to their records as drivers and claim they have the right to do so however this argument will often fall on uninformed ears.

A suspension can only be imposed for a set period of time, a revocation will never end. It is possible to apply for a new license after the revocation period has ended however, you will be required to pass a written and driving test. In addition, you will be required to pay a reapplication cost and may be required to show proof of your financial obligation.

What is find more between suspension and the revocation of an license?

A license suspension or revocation can be a major hassle and financial burden. You could have to pay higher insurance rates and you could lose your job, and you might even be charged with driving with an expired or suspended license. It is crucial to know the difference between a suspension and a revocation to be able to identify a solution faster.

A suspension is a temporary denial of driving privileges. It can range from one or two days to months or even years depending on your state's laws and the severity of the offense. Suspensions are usually the result of serious violations or noncompliance with regulations.


You can often have suspended by paying your fines and submitting a request to reinstate it, though the terms of this differ for indefinite and definite suspensions. In the case of a definitive suspension typically, you'll be given a date by which your license will be reinstated. After that, you are able to legally drive again as long as you've paid your fines and have met any other requirements the law enforcement official may have set forth.

A suspension that is indefinite sounds more alarming, but it in reality, it is usually shorter. This is where you are essentially told to wait out the time period, and once it's over you can apply for a new license, assuming you meet all other requirements like paying your fines and passing the driver's test or safety course.

A revocation is usually more severe than a suspended license and can result in permanent suspension of driving privileges. Revocations are generally considered to be punitive and can be a sign of serious breaches of the law or serious security threats to the public.

You can regain your license following a revocation. However, it's typically more complicated and will require the help of an experienced attorney. The terms of how to proceed will be contingent on the particular situation and the reason behind the revocation, however, in most cases, you will have to pay all outstanding fines, complete an instructor for driving or safety, and undergo the licensing process again from scratch. You may also have to show proof that you are suffering from an illness that is preventing you from driving safely, or pass a drug test.

How do I reinstate my license?

Regaining your license is not impossible however it is essential to be aware of the laws in your state and follow the rules with care. Some states allow drivers to get their license reinstated after a certain period of time, while other states have more stringent conditions that motorists must be able to meet. The first thing you need to take the time to go through the cancellation or suspension notice you received from your local DMV. This will tell you how the suspension is expected to last and what steps are required to obtain your driving permit back.

You'll usually have to pay a fee, and also provide proof of insurance to get your license. You may be required to complete a driver improvement course that will help you improve your driving record, and lower your insurance rate. The duration of the course you need to take will differ from state to state, and you must complete it within the specified timeframe.

It is not advisable to drive with your license suspended or revoked, as this will likely result in more serious penalties and could lead to even longer suspensions or a permanent loss of driving privileges. If you are caught, you will be charged with a driving crime and could face significant fines and even jail time.

In many instances, an offence involving driving can result in suspension however there are other instances that could also trigger license suspension, such as the failure to pay child support, unpaid taxes or not responding to a traffic ticket. In these situations, your license may be suspended for a long time and you'll need to consult a professional New York traffic lawyer for help.

Many people think that once their license is suspended, they are at a dead end and can't get it back, however this is not necessarily true. A good suspended license attorney will be able to work with the Department of Motor Vehicles and the courts to assist you get your license back after a set period of time. In certain cases the attorney might be able to lift the suspension by relying on a child support agreement or a payment plan for tax owed.