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 Washington State, suspension or revocation of a driver's license can occur for various reasons, including DUI, hit-and-run, reckless driving, accumulation of traffic tickets, and non-payment of child support. Drivers with suspended or revoked licenses may apply for an Occupational Restricted License (ORL), which allows them to drive to work, school, treatment programs, and other approved activities. Additionally, those convicted of DUI may be required to apply for an Ignition Interlock Driver License (IIL), which mandates the installation of an ignition interlock device that checks for alcohol before the vehicle can start. To reinstate a suspended license, drivers typically must provide proof of financial responsibility, pay any outstanding fines or child support, complete required treatment programs, and pay a reinstatement fee. Driving with a suspended license (DWLS) is a criminal offense in Washington and can result in fines, and potentially jail time for repeat offenses.