Jeremy M. Wang Law & Associates, LLC

You’ve just received word that you have a suspended license. It can be a devastating blow to your life, and it happens to many people. You may be thinking, ‘how long does my license stay suspended?’ and ‘what do I do?’ If you have a suspended license, you will be unable to drive a car or any other type of vehicle. If you use your vehicle for daily commutes, it might be time to start calling your attorney. Some drivers may decide to ignore the rules. If you took such risks and got pulled over, the repercussions would be severe. Contact Jeremy M. Wang Law & Associates, LLC for more information or legal representation regarding suspended licenses. 

What Is a Suspended License?

A suspended license is when you are prohibited from driving your car or any other vehicle. It can be a horrible situation, but you can manage to reinstate a suspended license if you have reliable legal representation. Also, the time it will take to reinstate your license may depend on the reason for its suspension. Also, the state in which you reside could determine the chances of your license being reinstated.

What Happens When Your License Is Suspended?

Any time a driving-related charge is filed against you, your license can be suspended. If you are charged with a traffic violation and the arresting officer seizes your driver’s license, your license will be automatically suspended. The situation is known as a “seizure.” You will likely get your license back after a few months.

If your license is seized for any other reason, it could be reinstated once it has been settled. During the suspension, you won’t be able to drive for a while. It might be days, weeks, or months. You will likely have to attend a court hearing to get your license back. In this case, legal representation from Jeremy M. Wang Law & Associates, LLC would be necessary.

What if You’re Pulled Over and Your License Is Suspended?

It is a criminal offense to drive with a suspended license, which could lead to heavy penalties. Driving under a suspended license could lead to a first, second, or third-degree criminal act, each having different consequences.

The third degree is the least serious and could result from minor charges. It could be an unpaid ticket, failed child support, or getting into a scuffle with a neighbor.

The second degree could lead to a gross misdemeanor and a one-year jail sentence. It could also attract a $5000 fine. If caught driving with a suspended license, driving carelessly, or driving under the influence, you will receive this punishment.

The most severe is the first-degree charge and is caused by one being a habitual traffic offender (HTO). Also, if you have been charged with three traffic offenses within five years, the penalties could include a $5000 fine, one-year jail sentence, or a gross misdemeanor. 

How Long Does a Suspension Last?

If you are found not guilty, your license will be automatically reinstated after 10 days. If you are charged with a traffic violation, and the arresting officer seals your driver’s license, you will likely get it back after a few months. The length of your suspension will depend on your state, so contact your attorney to get more information.

What if Your License Is Suspended for Driving Under the Influence?

If you are found driving under the influence, and your blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08 or higher, you will likely be charged or cited for DUI. Some states only charge you if you are over the legal limit when you drive.

If you are convicted of DUI, your license will likely be suspended for a minimum of one year. If you are charged and your license is not reinstated within 30 days, you can file a motion to have it permanently revoked. In this case, the court will have to decide the fate of your privileges.

A judge can rule on this motion, called an “absolute” or “permanent” revocation, only if there is no chance of having your license reinstated before the case ends. If your license is to be automatically revoked after 10 days, you can file a motion to have it set aside. It is called a “summary” revocation. If you file a summary revocation motion, a judge can rule on it even if you were not found guilty of a crime.

How Long Does a Suspension Last if You’re Pulled Over and Your License Is Suspended?

Some states require drivers to pass a road test before their license is reinstated. Others allow the DMV to reinstate your license 15 days after taking the written test or paying a fee.

You should not risk driving with a suspended license as the consequences can be severe. The results of a suspended license may also depend on your state and the circumstances of you getting the license suspended. As you try to reinstate your license, you will have to attend hearings, collect evidence, or negotiate with the prosecutors. You can’t do this alone, so ensure you get reputable attorneys to serve as your representation.