Understanding the reasons behind license suspensions in Illinois is crucial for every driver. Many people assume that only severe offenses, such as DUIs or reckless driving, can lead to a suspension. However, there are various factors that can result in losing your driving privileges, including unpaid traffic tickets, accumulating too many points on your driving record, or even failing to provide proof of insurance. By being aware of these common reasons, you can take proactive steps to avoid suspension and maintain your driving rights.
If you find yourself facing a potential suspension or have already received notice, it’s essential to seek professional guidance. Our experienced license reinstatement lawyers are here to help you navigate the complexities of Illinois driving laws and work towards getting you back on the road. Call (847) 359-4005 today to discuss your situation and explore your options!
Being Convicted of DUI
In Illinois, a DUI arrest can lead to either a suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. If you fail or refuse a chemical test, such as a breathalyzer, your license will automatically be suspended. For a first offense, a failed test results in a six-month suspension, while refusing the test increases it to 12 months. Subsequent offenses can extend this period up to 36 months.
A DUI conviction can also result in the revocation of your license. For a first conviction, the revocation lasts for at least one year. A second conviction can lead to a five-year revocation, while a third extends that to ten years. A fourth conviction results in permanent revocation of your driving privileges.
To reinstate your license in Illinois after a suspension or revocation, you must complete a drug and alcohol evaluation, attend a hearing with the Secretary of State, pay all required fees, and obtain SR-22 high-risk insurance. An attorney experienced in DUI defense can assist you through this process and help protect your rights.
Getting Too Many Points on Your Driving Record
In Illinois, your driver’s license can be suspended if you accumulate too many points on your driving record. Illinois uses a point system to track traffic violations, assigning a certain number of points for each offense. More severe violations, like speeding or reckless driving, result in higher points.
Here’s how the process works:
Point System
Each traffic violation you commit adds points to your record. For example, speeding 1-10 mph over the limit might add 5 points, while reckless driving could add 55 points. If you accumulate enough points within a specific time frame, your license may be suspended.
Suspension Thresholds
The length of your suspension depends on the number of points you’ve accumulated over a 12-month period:
- 15-44 points: Suspension of 2 months
- 45-74 points: Suspension of 3 months
- 75-89 points: Suspension of 6 months
- 90-99 points: Suspension of 9 months
- 100+ points: Suspension of 12 months
Avoiding Suspension
To avoid a suspension, you can take steps like contesting traffic tickets or attending traffic school, which can sometimes prevent points from being added to your record. If you’ve accumulated points, consulting an attorney may help you reduce the impact and protect your driving privileges.
Accumulating too many points can lead to serious consequences for your driving privileges, so it’s essential to be proactive in handling traffic violations.
Fleeing an Accident Site
In Illinois, you can lose your driver’s license for leaving the scene of an accident under certain conditions. Here’s how it works:
- Property Damage Only
- If you leave the scene of an accident that only involves property damage, you may face a Class A misdemeanor charge. The penalties can include fines and possible jail time. Additionally, the Secretary of State may suspend your license for up to one year.
- Injury or Death
- If you leave the scene of an accident that results in injury or death, it is classified as a Class 4 felony. Penalties include significant fines, potential prison time, and a mandatory revocation of your driver’s license. A revocation means you lose your driving privileges and must go through a formal reinstatement process.
You can lose your license for leaving the scene of an accident in Illinois, particularly when injuries or fatalities are involved. It’s essential to consult an attorney if you’re facing such charges to understand your rights and options for defense.
Missing Child Support or Other Court Ordered Payments
Yes, in Illinois, you can lose your driver’s license for failing to pay child support or other court-ordered payments. Here’s how the process works:
- Child Support: If you fall behind on child support payments, the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) can initiate a process to suspend your driver’s license. This typically occurs after you are more than 90 days behind on payments.
- Other Court-Ordered Payments: Similar to child support, failing to comply with other court-ordered payments, such as fines or restitution, can also result in a driver’s license suspension.
If you are subject to license suspension for non-payment:
- Notification: You will receive a notice from HFS about the impending suspension.
- Opportunity to Resolve: You may have the chance to resolve the issue by making a payment plan or bringing your account current.
- Hearing: If you believe the suspension is unjust, you can request a hearing to contest it.
Failing to pay child support or other court-ordered payments can lead to the suspension of your driver’s license in Illinois. If you find yourself in this situation, consulting an attorney can help you navigate the process and protect your rights.
How To Check if Your License is Suspended
Checking if your driver’s license is suspended in Illinois is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can do it:
- Visit the Illinois Secretary of State Website: The easiest way to check your license status is through the Illinois Secretary of State’s website. They offer an online service for license status checks.
- Go to the Illinois Secretary of State’s website.
- Navigate to the “Driver Services” section.
- Look for the option to check your driving record or license status.
- Provide Required Information: To access your driving record, you will typically need to enter personal information, including:
- Your full name
- Your date of birth
- Your driver’s license number (if available)
- Review Your Driving Record: After entering your information, you will be able to view your driving record, which will indicate if your license is suspended, revoked, or in good standing.
- Contact the Secretary of State’s Office: If you prefer to check your status by phone, you can contact the Illinois Secretary of State’s office directly. They can provide information on your license status and any necessary steps to address any issues.
- Visit a Local Secretary of State Office: You can also visit a local Secretary of State facility in person. Bring identification, such as your current driver’s license or state ID, to inquire about your driving record and license status.
Checking if your license is suspended in Illinois can be done online, by phone, or in person. It’s important to stay informed about your driving status to avoid any legal issues or penalties. If you discover that your license is suspended, consider consulting an attorney for guidance on reinstatement options.
How to Get a Suspended License Reinstated
Getting your driver’s license reinstated in Illinois involves several steps, depending on the reason for the suspension or revocation. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to navigate the reinstatement process:
- Determine the Reason for Suspension or Revocation: Understand why your license was suspended or revoked. Common reasons include:
- DUI conviction
- Accumulation of too many points
- Failure to pay child support
- Failing to comply with court-ordered payments
- Complete Required Penalties or Conditions: Before you can reinstate your license, you may need to complete certain requirements, such as:
- Paying fines and fees associated with your suspension or revocation.
- Completing any court-ordered treatment programs, especially for DUI cases.
- Attending traffic school, if applicable.
- Obtain a Hearing: For some suspensions, especially those related to DUI or multiple offenses, you may need to attend a formal hearing with the Illinois Secretary of State. You can request a hearing through the Secretary of State’s office:
- Prepare your documentation: Bring any necessary documents, including proof of completion of required programs or payments.
- Schedule your hearing: You can usually schedule a hearing online or by contacting the Secretary of State’s office.
- Pay the Reinstatement Fee: Once you have met all requirements, you’ll need to pay a reinstatement fee. The amount varies depending on the type of suspension or revocation. Check the Illinois Secretary of State’s website for specific fee amounts.
- Apply for Reinstatement: You can apply for reinstatement:
- Online: Visit the Illinois Secretary of State’s website to see if you qualify for online reinstatement.
- By mail: Submit the required documentation and payment through the mail.
- In person: Visit a local Secretary of State facility to complete the reinstatement process.
- Obtain High-Risk Insurance: For certain offenses, particularly DUIs, you may be required to obtain SR-22 high-risk insurance. This type of insurance proves that you meet the state’s minimum liability coverage requirements. Make sure your insurer files the SR-22 form with the Secretary of State.
Reinstating your driver’s license in Illinois can involve multiple steps, but understanding the process can help you navigate it more smoothly. If you have questions or concerns about your specific situation, consider consulting an attorney for guidance.
Facing License Suspension? Contact Us for Assistance
In Illinois, understanding the common reasons for license suspension can help you avoid potential pitfalls and maintain your driving privileges. Whether it’s due to unpaid fines, excessive points on your record, or other violations, being informed is key. If you believe your license is at risk or you’ve already received a suspension notice, acting quickly is vital.
Don’t face this challenge alone. Reach out to our license attorneys in Rolling Meadows today to discuss your case and explore your options for reinstating your license. We are here to help you regain your driving rights and navigate the legal complexities with confidence!
