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. And in many states a driver who is arrested for DUI/DWI will have their license confiscated by the arresting officer and it will be automatically suspended when the department of motor vehicles (DMV) receives notice of the arrest.

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 prosecuted as a misdemeanor with a fine as punishment—and the possibility of jail time for subsequent DWLS offenses.

In Pennsylvania, suspension or revocation of a driver's license can occur for various reasons, including driving under the influence (DUI), hit-and-run incidents, fleeing and eluding police, excessive traffic violations, racing, or failing to pay child support. When a driver is arrested for DUI, their license may be confiscated and automatically suspended upon notification to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). Drivers with suspended or revoked licenses may be eligible for an Occupational Limited License (OLL) for essential travel, such as to work, school, or treatment programs. Additionally, Pennsylvania offers the Ignition Interlock Limited License (IILL) for certain DUI offenders, which requires an ignition interlock device to be installed in their vehicle. To reinstate a suspended license, drivers must typically provide proof of insurance, pay any outstanding child support, complete required treatment programs, and pay a reinstatement fee. Driving with a suspended license in Pennsylvania is a serious offense that can result in fines, and repeat offenses may lead to jail time.