Mistakes have consequences. And oftentimes, mistakes made on the road will result in a license suspension. A suspended license means that your state has revoked your driving privileges for a certain amount of time. To get your suspended license reinstated, you’ll likely need to wait a period of time and complete certain actions, as specified by the state.
But how exactly does your license get suspended in the first place?
The following road offenses could result in the suspension of your driver’s license:
It’s likely no surprise that driving irresponsibly can result in your license being taken away. But what you may not know is that your license can be taken away for reasons unrelated to driving.
Depending on the laws of your home state, your license could be suspended for the following actions (or inactions):
It might seem unfair that actions unrelated to your driving could hamper your ability to hit the road, but it’s true. Understanding the rules around license suspension can help ensure you keep your driver’s license valid and avoid the following consequences.
Keep in mind that a license suspension isn’t the same thing as your license being revoked, which is usually more permanent. A license suspension is usually temporary and there are steps you can take to get your license reinstated.
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Whatever the cause may be, losing your driver’s license is something most people want to avoid. It’s a huge hassle to be unable to drive, and it can result in entirely unexpected consequences that affect your life.
A suspended license can also result in:
Dealing with a suspended license is a pain, which is why it’s so important to avoid this situation in the first place. By doing your best to maintain a clean driving record and avoiding the situations off the road that can lead to your license being taken away, you’ll be able to hit the road freely.
If your license does get suspended, the state may require proof of insurance in order for you to get your license back. If that’s the case, they will ask for either an SR-22 or FR-44 form to prove that you have the necessary auto insurance coverage before getting back on the road.
These forms are filed by your insurance provider on your behalf, but you’ll need to put in a request with your provider for them to do so. This request will likely cause your insurance premiums to be raised, but maintaining a clean driving record can help them drop eventually.
Keep in mind that if your insurance policy lapses, your insurance provider will need to inform the state’s motor vehicle department.
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The nature of a suspension is not permanent. Chances are, you’ll be getting back behind the wheel once your suspension period is over. And when you do, you’ll need car insurance.
The first thing you have to understand is that insurance coverage for a suspended license will be more difficult to find and more expensive when you do find it.
With higher premiums, you will want to explore all your money-saving options such as:
Even with the higher premiums that come with having had a suspended license, you can still find savings on your auto insurance premiums. Plus, by avoiding any further infractions on your driving record, you can rest assured that eventually your premiums will drop and become more affordable with time.
A suspended license isn’t ideal, but it’s not the end of the road. Reinstating your license and getting affordable car insurance are possible, even if it might take a little extra legwork.
ConsumerCoverage is here to help. We get you fast, free quotes on your auto insurance to help you get back on the road faster. Get started—it’s easy!
Lauren Lewthwaite Lauren Lewthwaite has been freelance writing for almost five years writing content that ranges from health to insurance and everything in between. Lauren is also a trained translator in French and English and is a dog-mom to an adorable Australian Shepherd.
