Suspension or revocation of driver’s license is often the result of conviction for serious driving offenses, such as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, hit-and-run, fleeing and eluding, excessive traffic tickets, and racing—or failing to meet other state-mandated financial obligations, such as timely payment of child support.

A driver whose license has been suspended or revoked may be able to apply for and secure a restricted driver’s license or occupational restricted license to only drive to and from places such as work, school, drug or alcohol treatment, and community service. And in some states such a driver may be able to apply for an ignition interlock device (IID) restricted license that permits the driver to drive with an installed IID that tests for alcohol and drug consumption before the vehicle is operable.

When a driver’s license is suspended, the driver may be able to apply to the state for reinstatement of driving privileges upon meeting requirements such as: (1) providing proof of financial responsibility (required automobile liability insurance); (2) payment of child support in arrears; (3) participation in drug and alcohol evaluation and treatment programs; and (4) payment of a reinstatement fee.

The infraction or offense of driving with license suspended is usually located in a state’s statutes, and may prosecuted as a misdemeanor with a fine as punishment—and the possibility of jail time for subsequent DWLS offenses.

In New York State, the suspension or revocation of a driver's license can occur for various reasons, including driving under the influence (DUI), hit-and-run incidents, excessive traffic violations, and non-payment of child support. New York does offer conditional licenses for those whose licenses have been suspended or revoked due to alcohol or drug-related offenses, which allow driving under specific conditions, such as to and from work, school, or treatment programs. Additionally, New York has an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Program, which requires the installation of an IID for drivers convicted of certain alcohol-related offenses as a condition of having driving privileges restored. To reinstate a suspended or revoked license, the driver must typically provide proof of insurance (financial responsibility), pay any outstanding fines or child support, complete any mandated treatment programs, and pay a reinstatement fee. Driving with a suspended license (DWLS) in New York is a serious offense that can lead to fines, and repeat offenses may result in jail time.